The 4Days Marches is so much more than just a walking event. Sackers: ‘The magic lies in the combination of walking, sports, performance and tradition — all in the context of Nijmegen and its surrounding area.’ Jansen emphasises the togetherness that this city represents during that one week every year: ‘One person walks, the other cheers on, and yet another provides medical support. It unites people.’

A special partnership

Stichting DE 4DAAGSE branched off from the Royal Dutch Walking Association KWbN, and the two organisations have been working closely together for years. ‘We set high standards for each other, share knowledge and use each other’s expertise,’ says Sackers. Janssen adds: ‘Other examples are our ”Via Vierdaagse” programme for first-time walkers and the rest stations along the route.’ They both agree: the 4Days Marches is not just an event, but a driving force for walking as a pastime in the Netherlands.

Keep walking: future and trends

Walking always used to be something that people primarily did in the spring, Janssen points out. ‘At the Royal Dutch Walking Association KWbN we encourage people to get moving all year round, both in organised walks and on their own.’ Sackers thinks it’s a cliché to say that they deliberately raise the bar. ‘I hope that the togetherness especially inspires people to keep walking after July as well.’

Organising a future-proof event is becoming increasingly challenging. Sackers emphasises that sustainability is an important topic and that ‘the 4Days Marches must adapt to the times we live in, without compromising on its key values.’

Short events and personal challenges are becoming more and more popular. Janssen points to hiking, trails, and Kennedy marches as examples. ‘Technological trends such as apps and smartwatches are making it easier for walkers to plan and share their routes.’

In closing

The march coordinator and the executive director each have one more wish they would like to share. Janssen: ‘For more Dutch people to take up walking on a regular basis, so that everyone can get closer to the prospect of completing the 4Days Marches one day.’ Sackers concludes: ‘And for the 4Days Marches to continue to be traditionally innovative.’