This year, 2,080 women are taking on the 50‑kilometre route of the Nijmegen Four Days Marches. The proportion of women choosing the longest distance has risen steadily in recent years, reflecting a shift in participation. The age range is striking; walkers span from 11 years to 81 years old. For men aged 19 to 49, the 50‑kilometre route is mandatory, while women can decide for themselves whether to join the longest distance.
Young adults
The organisation also notes rising participation among walkers aged 21 to 30, who make up 21 percent this year. This increase is described as unexpected. More often, people in that age group are assumed to prioritise nightlife or family responsibilities. According to a spokesperson, walking has become popular since the coronavirus pandemic.
Global Event
A total of 47,000 walkers from 77 nationalities will start the walk on July 21. Of all participants, 57 percent are men and 43 percent are women. The largest age group is 61 to 70, representing 23 percent of all walkers. More than 13,000 people will be joining the ‘Vierdaagse’ for the first time, while one participant is aiming for his 66th medal.
Safety Measures
During a press conference on Thursday, Nijmegen Mayor Hubert Bruls announced that the crowd control room will be used again this time. This central hub allows safety teams to intervene quickly in cases of overcrowding or extreme weather.
As in previous years, supermarkets and shops in the city centre are prohibited from selling alcohol between 12:00 PM and midnight during the Four Days Marches week.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
