Dordrecht – The Hope Rondje Nederland 2024 ended in Dorp de Hope in Dordrecht on Saturday, with the 220 participants covering 1,200 kilometers on a relay journey across the Netherlands in 48 hours. Together, their efforts have so far raised €412,500 for reception centers in De Hoop. (Photo: Cycle for Hope)
The ten teams started last Thursday. The mood was really good at first. The participants have trained a lot and now it will actually happen. After 48 hours, the participants finished back at Dorp De Hoop in Dordrecht. One participant said: “It was a difficult trip with heavy rain on Friday, but it was a rich experience!”
Deposit centers
De Hoop helps people on their way to a new life. People who no longer know how to move forward, due to addiction or psychological problems, are given the chance of a new life at De Hoop. Rondje Nederland participants support this organization by raising funds for non-compensated work, such as reception centers in Dordrecht and Vlissingen. Thanks to their participation, De Hoop can continue working for these people.
calf bite
The first ride took off at full speed through Westland, along the coast to Noordwijk. To Zeewolde and on the reclaimed roads from Flevoland in the dark through the Frisian Lake District to the north. On Friday morning, the Moor van Emmen was climbed early in the morning, then descended further through Twente and Achterhoek to North Limburg. It had been very rainy during the day. At the various change points, the stewards were on hand to look after the tired and wet riders. “It's nice to be able to do this for the cyclists who are achieving such a special performance,” said one. The first descents of the Limburg hills were on the route of stage eight. The riders finished from Camerig in the last rays of sunshine. The famous calf-biting Keutenberg was also conquered. One participant: “In this weather, there was extra suffering, but it was worth it.”
party
Vessem was visited on the second night. The penultimate stage between Eten-Lor and Cumberland has been completed. The sun was shining now and the bands flew onto the stage from Cumberland over Zealand Bridge with the wind at their backs. Dordrecht was in sight and this gave them wings. With a huge party, Dorp de Hoop participants were welcomed on Saturday by family, friends, sponsors and De Hoop customers.
Involved
Rondje Nederland is the biggest event, but it is not the only one of Cycle for Hope. This year, Cycle for Hope is also organizing the MTB Challenge and Rides on August 30th and 31st. Registration is possible via www.cycleforhope.nl.
