steal the show Tiathlon Holten 2017
An enormous sporting atmosphere and above all a lot of fun; this is how you can perfectly describe the weekend of the Triathlon Holten 2017. The village of Holten was buzzing with all kinds of internationalities, driven triathletes, and, above all, enthusiastic spectators just like in previous editions. Although the weather didn’t cooperate during the ETU elite and junior cup held in the morning, the top international triathletes look back on a fantastic race. Especially in Team Australia, several podium places were achieved. However, it is Rachel Klamer and her boyfriend Richard Murray who steal the show. Murray effortlessly crosses the finish line. He even includes a little victory dance. Not much later, it is Klamer who can jubilantly grab the ribbon and pass under the gate. Under loud applause from the audience that stands en masse for the favorite. Klamer has let her fans enjoy her big smile on a big screen during the last kilometers.
“Fantastic! What a performance!” a spectator exclaims. While the next series, including Koers Oost corporate teams and the Olympic Distance, are underway, the rain stops, and the center of Holten fills up with even more spectators. Browsing the sports market stalls or looking for a spot on the stands. There is no time to get bored. The arena also sees a flow of runners coming and going. Prize winners are celebrated on the podium, and the speakers provide everyone with relevant information. The sun even breaks through, and it seems that Holten is treated to a wonderful evening. By now, all Olympic Distance series have crossed the finish line. Triathlete Hans Pluimers is puffing on a bench behind the finish area. “You go completely all-out, but it remains fantastic,” he laughs energetically. “And then all those barbecue parties and heavy metal music along the way.” Next to him is former Holten resident Marcel Veltkamp, also catching his breath from the demanding performance. “It was tough. I just can’t swim. But still made it to the finish,” Veltkamp says. “Also, because my family and old neighbors were on the side.”
Behind the scenes, participants line up for a treatment in the massage tent to rub away the last bits of cramp. Further on, athletes grab pieces of sliced fruit and sports drinks for the lost vitamins and minerals. Inge Wessels is on the stands enjoying her first participation with the corporate team VolkerWessels. “I will definitely participate again next year!” she says radiant. “And I was thankfully not the last out of the water. I have gotten much more respect for the top triathletes. Because it’s tough, especially with cold swimming water. I was glad I had a wetsuit on. Yes, and now to celebrate a wonderful party.” It’s a big party when the Holten residents get their turn. Horns, banners, and cheers from all sides; the participants are carried through the running course. A few still sprint to capture the last seconds. Others find it a bit harder and run at a quiet pace, waving or focused. The audience visibly enjoys, waiting with a little flower for loved ones or colleagues. And when the very last participant, Steven van Riel, is brought home by all of Holten, the final party bursts. “Once again undoubtedly a successful edition,” responds Martin Pieters, chairman of Triathlon Holten proudly.
