In Verkeskop (Beugen) Sunday morning traditionally revolved around the Knakworst races. The whole village turns out for the annual carnival activity. As a spectator or as a participant. “For many, it is a childhood dream to become the king of the Knakworst races,” says one of the participants.
The Knakworstrennen is a kind of running race between people who all have someone on their back. Both the riders and the ‘horses’ are dressed up in carnival style for this occasion. The participants gallop over a very difficult course of loose sand. Ramon Smits, the winner of 2022, knows that all too well. “It went downright bad today. Last year I was the winner. This year I crashed right away. I think the rider was too heavy,” he says with a laugh.
“In the end it’s about the fun you have with each other,” says another participant. “But there are also fanatical participants. They are deadly serious and want to become the king of the races one day. For some, that is a childhood dream. Hopefully one will be realized again today.” And that happened. Camiel Smits is the king this year, with Quinten Swaan as rider.
Laurel wreath with frankfurters
The first ever race was held in 1985 and was so popular that it is repeated every year. Only in corona time it was silent. In addition to the immeasurable honor of victory, the winner also receives a laurel wreath with frankfurters. Since January 2020, the Knakworst races are officially part of the intangible heritage in the Netherlands.
Last year things went wrong when a scaffolding with spectators fell over. Five people were injured. “I assume that they have done well with the scaffolding this year. At least this year the wind is not so strong,” says Toos, one of the spectators. “I come to watch every year. It is the harbinger of the Metworstrennen in Boxmeer, which will be held tomorrow. For me, the best thing about the Knakworstrennen is the fun.”
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