Showtime in the media capital of the Netherlands: over 8,300 participants complete the KiKa Hilversum City Run

Under perfect conditions, the largest sporting event in the Gooi and surrounding area took place today: the KiKa Hilversum City Run. In addition to the traditional 5 and 10 km, as well as the Bink Kids Run and Family Run, walking was also an option for the first time in the broadcasting city during this 20th edition. A symbolic 600 participants per distance (6, 11, and 19 km) took part in the 600 jaar Hilversum Walk. With the athletic achievements of a total of 1,800 walkers and 6,500 runners, an impressive amount was raised for the KiKa Foundation: € 47,204.

600 jaar Hilversum Walk
In honor of the 600th anniversary of the media city, sports organization Le Champion added the 600 jaar Hilversum Walk to the program. The new component was very well received: all three distances were sold out well in advance. Starting from the Marktplein, the 6, 11, and 19 km routes led past the Media Park and through the beautiful, green surroundings of Hilversum. Highlights along the route included the iconic Beeld & Geluid building, the impressive television tower, and the Spanderswoud country estate.

Sunny edition turns media city upside down
The 20th edition of the running event kicked off in the morning with the Bink Kids Run and Family Run. Getting children active is an important pillar of the event, and with the starting shot fired by Jeroen Olthof, provincial executive of the Province of North Holland, the importance of exercise for youth was emphasized once again. More than 1,000 children and parents enjoyed this athletic challenge together.

In the afternoon, it was up to Mayor Van den Top to give the starting signal for the 5 km, followed shortly after by the 10 km past the Media Park, the Town Hall, and through the Gooi neighborhoods and the coziest streets of the city center. The lovely spring weather and numerous supporters created an excellent atmosphere along the course and at the finish line on the lively Marktplein. The Hilversum running celebration was once again a success for young and old!

Just like last year, the 10 km race was won by Guus Winkelmolen in a time of 31.06 minutes. Silke Jonkman was the first woman on the podium with a finishing time of 32.59 minutes.

Proceeds for charity
For the Hilversum City Run, this was the first edition with Stichting Kinderen Kankervrij (KiKa) as the title partner and charity. KiKa funds scientific research into childhood cancer. Participants could make a voluntary donation to KiKa during their registration and also start a sponsorship campaign to which family, friends, and acquaintances could donate. Thanks to all the runners, walkers, and donors, Jan Houtenbos from Stichting Le Champion was able to present a check today for the wonderful amount of € 47,204 to Jakolien van Eijk from KiKa.

2025 Edition
The next edition of the KiKa Hilversum City Run will take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Registration will open again at the end of November.