A team of ten ran in the Antwerp Marathon on April 20, 2008. Pastor Joel Shirk, US board chairman Ron Hayes and Rob Jongeneel ran the entire 42 km, while Dr. Don Paine ran the half marathon. A Dutch team of six [John Oostdijk (yes our John!), Peter Vossepoel (Dutch board treasurer), Peter-Paul Vossepoel, Jaap Scheele, Hans van Tol and Daniel Hinze (BB intern)] ran the relay in just under four hours.

The day began with a Marathon Worship Service at the St. Luke’s church in the Linkeroever, close to the start of the marathon. Paster Herman, a retired couple from his church and a Kenyan runner were the only extra guests, but they and we thoroughly enjoyed the service with Dr. Don’s energetic music and Joel’s inspiring words.

We all enjoyed the atmosphere and the beautiful day. It was a bit too warm for the runners, but those of us cheering them on enjoyed the sun! And the traffic in and around the city was a nightmare, but eventually everyone got to their required destination and a shower and bed. We’re all ready to go back next year and do it again!

A big Thank You to all the runners and those who supported them! A special thanks to the Americans who came to Europe especially for this marathon. They ran the furthest and raised the most! In total about € 3.200 was raised for youth ministry in Europe.

Run with us next year!

The date is April 19, 2009 in Antwerp, Belgium. Come join us for a time of fellowship and vision-building!