The NN Marathon Rotterdam is set to take over the city this weekend, with thousands of runners eagerly preparing for the race on April 13, 2025. Starting at the iconic Erasmus Bridge, this year's marathon promises to be an exhilarating event filled with excitement and anticipation.
As the marathon approaches, the weather forecast indicates temperatures around 13 degrees Celsius with a southeast wind of force 4, providing a refreshing atmosphere for the participants. However, some rain is expected during the race, which could offer a cooling respite for the runners as they tackle the challenging course.
Among the prominent names on the starting list is Geoffrey Kamworor, a two-time New York Marathon champion and a favorite to win this year’s event. Kamworor, who boasts a personal best of 2:04.23, aims to break the current course record of 2:03.36, set by Bashir Abdi in 2021. He expressed his determination, stating, "Trying to win the race is the most important thing for me. If I win, a good time will come as well." Kamworor, who has a storied career including three world titles in the half marathon, is eager to add a victory in Rotterdam to his accolades.
Joining Kamworor is the young Ethiopian talent Chimdessa Debele, who made waves with a debut time of 2:04.44 in Valencia last December. Debele, just 21 years old, is expected to be a formidable competitor. The men’s elite group, which also includes Kenneth Kipkemoi and Asmare Bezezew, aims to reach the halfway mark in 1:02, setting a fast pace right from the start.
On the women’s side, Dolshi Tesfu returns as a top contender, having previously finished second in the 2023 edition. With a personal best of 2:20.40, Tesfu is determined to claim victory this time around. She will face strong competition from Meskerem Assefa, who won the marathon in 2017 and has a personal record of 2:20.36.
Anne Luijten, a well-known Dutch athlete, is also back for her fourth consecutive Rotterdam Marathon. Luijten aims for a negative split and hopes to finish under 2:29, building on her personal record of 2:26.36. She remarked, "I have incredible memories of Rotterdam. I made a beautiful debut in 2022 and improved significantly in 2023, winning the Dutch title. It’s great to return." Luijten will also compete in the NK Half Marathon shortly before the marathon, making this a busy period for her.
The marathon course has undergone some changes this year, notably the removal of the loop at Slinge, which is expected to save runners a few seconds. Marathon director Wilbert Lek highlighted that the alteration will enhance the racing experience, eliminating the need for a 180-degree turn that previously slowed competitors down. "We’ve made the course faster, which will benefit the runners," Lek stated.
As the excitement builds, the atmosphere in Rotterdam is palpable. Sander de Kramer, a former marathon runner, shared his thoughts on the event, saying, "It’s the most beautiful day of the year in Rotterdam. Everyone is happy, and the energy is incredible." This year, the iconic 'You’ll Never Walk Alone' will be performed by operatic singer Francis van Broekhuizen, taking over from the beloved Lee Towers, who has been synonymous with the marathon for years. De Kramer noted, "We will miss Lee Towers; he was the icon of Rotterdam. But Francis will undoubtedly do a fantastic job. Magical things happen on this day. You’re carried by the crowd, and the atmosphere is electric."
In preparation for the event, the RET has announced that April 12 and 13 will see significant changes to public transport due to the marathon. Bicycles will not be allowed in the metro, and many bus and tram lines will operate on modified routes. Passengers are advised to use alternative stops, as some metro stations, including Leuvehaven and Stadhuis, will have limited access. The RET encourages travelers to use public transport to navigate the city, as large areas will be closed to car traffic.
Medical preparations are also in place to ensure the safety of all participants. Jelmer Alsma, an internist at Erasmus MC, warned runners to be vigilant about heat stress, especially since the weather could lead to overheating. Last year, 77 runners required medical treatment for heat-related issues. "Runners need to stay hydrated and be mindful of their body’s signals," Alsma advised. Over 100 medical professionals will be on standby, with ambulances and aid stations set up along the course.
With 17,000 entry tickets sold, the NN Marathon Rotterdam is poised to be a grand celebration of athleticism and community spirit. As the runners lace up their shoes and prepare for the challenge ahead, the city of Rotterdam gears up to cheer them on, creating a vibrant atmosphere that will resonate throughout the day.
As the countdown to the start continues, all eyes will be on the Erasmus Bridge, where dreams of victory will take flight. The NN Marathon Rotterdam is not just a race; it’s a testament to the human spirit, endurance, and the joy of running together. Let the marathon begin!
