KLM Curaçao Marathon

In addition to the wonderful climate the island boasts more than 35 beaches, fantastic choices of watersports and a breathtaking underwater world with more than 65 diving spots. It also offers many attractions, including iconic bridges, colourful architecture and historical points of interest.

The course is beautiful and challenging. There are four different distances on the road and one trail race to choose from. The finish line is right on the beach, and the award ceremony is followed — in true Caribbean style — by a beach party.

The island has a diverse heritage, a laid-back attitude and unrivalled Dutch colonial architecture. Thanks to the fine hotels, wide variety of cuisine and first-class venues and facilities Curaçao is a very popular destination both for relaxing holidays and sporting adventures. Condé Nast Traveller named the capital city, Willemstad, as among its top five in the Caribbean.

The third edition of the KLM Curaçao Marathon will be held on 27 November 2016. The marathon starts at 04.00 and the half marathon at 06.00. The route takes runners along the waterfront of Curaçao, across the ‘Swinging Old Lady’ (the famous Queen Emma pontoon bridge) and over one of the highest bridges in the world, the Queen Juliana Bridge, which is 56m above sea level.

This fantastic family running event suits any age, and is ideal for schools and companies. There are various distances available: the Cavalier 5km starts at 07.30 (walk or run); the Intertrust 10km starts at 07.00 (walk or run); the Royal Netherlands Navy 10.5km Trail starts at 06.45 and threads its way through the peaceful scenery of the Jan Thiel Salt Pans. That’s in addition to the Amstel Bright Half Marathon and KLM Marathon. All the hotels along the course are involved in this unique running festival.

Running enthusiast Natalie Diblasio wrote an article on halfmarathons.net in which she said: “This race was a beautiful reminder that time isn’t everything. Running through the streets of Curaçao in the early morning accompanied by rooster calls, the wagging tails of stray dogs, greetings in languages I didn’t know and the sounds of crashing waves made for the most unique and beautiful 26.2 miles I’ve ever travelled. This race reminds me of the beauty of running — exploring a new place on my own two feet. Your Curaçao runcation awaits!”

See: www.klmcuracaomarathon.com