Bornem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The course for the 56th edition of the Dodentocht in Bornem has been revealed. Various parts of the trail have been modified because, in previous years, waiting periods were prolonged for some hikers. Each year, the Dodentocht draws approximately 13,000 participants who will walk a total distance of 100 kilometers.
At the start of last summer, the Dodentocht organizing committee introduced a new route, but the 100-kilometer stretch was still problematic in places. People had to wait in extensive lines at several locations, including at the Lippelo checkpoint in Bornem, in the province of Antwerp, as reported by VRT.
“We have adjusted the new route based on last year’s experiences and comments from the hikers,”
explains Kristof Diddens, who is responsible for the route and the safety of the hikers.
“In some places we have tried to improve the flow of the hikers.”
Walkers who wanted to receive their well-earned medal after 100 kilometers sometimes had to wait a long time at the finish line last year.
“Due to the nice weather, many participants walked the entire walk last year, which caused the crowds at the finish.”
The organization is better prepared for a massive influx at the finish line this year.
“We ensure that participants can get their diplomas and medals more quickly, but it could also be that the weather is a bit worse this year, and fewer people will make it to the finish.”
Diddens lists the most important adjustments to the course.
“Right at the beginning, the course runs over roads that are as wide as possible, because there are still a lot of participants. We avoid obstacles as much as possible, such as planters, traffic islands, etc.”
“Then we go via Branst to Weert, via a very wide road. Between Hingene and Wintam we no longer go along the Koningin Astridlaan, but via the dike at Nieuwersluis. At the end there is still a section to go from Oppuurs towards Branst. We had to make some minor adjustments there, so that the route is exactly 100 kilometers long.”
There are no tickets left of the 13,000 available for the Dodentocht on 8 August. Potential participants still wanting a sporting experience this summer are advised to see if they can acquire tickets from those who decide not to, or are unable to, participate starting July 15. You can find additional information about this at the organisation’s website.
What is the history of “Death March” in Bornem?
Known as the “Death March,” the Dodentocht features a 100-kilometer non-competitive hike held each year in Bornem, Belgium; it started in 1970. What started with 65 participants has grown to become one of the main endurance walking events on the European stage, bringing in about 13,000 hikers from across the region.
The event is run by the non-profit Kadee Vzw, which fosters community, with some 600 volunteers helping with its management. Organizers recommend that walkers complete the distance in 24 hours, while enjoying Klein-Brabant’s sights.
Organizers of the Dodentocht have, over the years, had to change the route because of both weather issues and too many participants. Particularly, in 2022, organizers had to reduce the route to 63.6 km because of a heatwave. Comprehending the need for smoother progress reported earlier, route designers updated the 2025 course to prevent longer queues and boost walker movement. The motto, “Walking for a better world,” is preserved by the event, and numerous participants use the opportunity to support charitable causes.
