The sixth edition of the AG Coast Walk has shattered last year’s record, drawing 11,000 participants compared to the previous 7,700.
Saturday’s walking event was fully booked. “It is once again a great success,” said Greg Broekmans from organiser Golazo.
Since its inception in 2019, the Belgian Coast Walk has only gained in popularity. With over 11,000 participants, it has quickly become the second largest walking event in the country, following the Dodentocht.
Approximately 2,000 enthusiastic walkers began their 80-kilometre journey between 4:30 and 5:00 in the morning in De Panne. Participants in the 60-kilometre route joined near Nieuwpoort, while those walking 42 kilometres started in Ostend. The 25-kilometre path began in De Haan, and the 10-kilometre route both started and finished in Knokke-Heist.
“We all discovered the joy of walking during the coronavirus pandemic,” said Greg Broekmans from Golazo. “It’s also the most accessible way to exercise, which partially explains the success of our event. There’s something for everyone: a 10-kilometre loop for beginners and longer distances of 60 or 80 kilometres for those seeking a challenge.” The route took participants through forests, over dykes, past harbours, through dunes, and along the beach. A minor dune fire in Bredene required slight adjustments to the course.
