Nieuw-Buinen literally happens overnight, but the first skating marathon is not possible

This did not apply to Haaksbergen and Winterswijk, where King Winter presented himself more emphatically. “That was also somewhat predicted,” says Wessels, who nevertheless took a combative stance. “You always have hope that you will be able to organize that first marathon. As long as nothing has been decided yet, you never give up and you go for it.”

Yet there is no disappointment. At least, not with Wessels, who is especially proud of what was achieved in one night. “The ice surface is in good condition. There is one and a half centimeters of ice and that is enough to open to the public,” she says, as she looks approvingly over the track.

“Because,” she continues, “Participating in the marathon is great and the battle between all the mutual ice skating clubs is fantastic, but that does not outweigh an ice rink full of skating children and other enthusiastic people. Ultimately, that is what you do it for.”

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