2025 is a big year: the Amsterdam marathon turns 50, and the city itself celebrates its 750th anniversary. No wonder it sold out in days! I missed the regular registration window, so I had to go through a travel agency, much pricier, but that’s what it takes now for popular races. Whether it’s the majors, super halfs, or World Athletics Platinum Label events like Amsterdam, spots vanish fast.
Just look at London: 1.1 million applications for the 2026 marathon. That’s a world record!
Amsterdam wasn’t my first pick, though. I had my eye on New York and even had a great M50 qualifying time (3:03:20). Still, it wasn’t enough. Not being selected was a tough one to swallow. I considered the travel agency route, but with a personal trip to Japan already on the books, it just didn’t make sense financially. So, NY will have to wait at least another year.
Since the Vienna marathon five weeks ago, I’ve kept a steady running routine. Now, it’s almost time to kick off the Amsterdam specific block, though first, I’m pausing for my Japan trip. I’ll try to squeeze in some short runs, but I know it won’t be easy. Hopefully, the break won’t derail my progress too much.
Once back (May 25), I’ll hit the ground running with a focused five-month plan. I’ve also signed up for a few shorter races this time, a new strategy I discussed with my coach to build up speed and stamina. Here’s what’s lined up:
June 8 – 10K Santo António: Just back from Japan. Probably going to be hot. Definitely going to be hard so I’ll pretend it’s “just a tempo run”.
June 28 – 15K Fogueiras: A nighttime race in Peniche. Locals light bonfires and cheer. We eat sardines after. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, it smells like smoke and fish but I like it.
September 14 – Porto Half Marathon: The big checkpoint before Amsterdam. Will I fly or cry? Time will tell.
Plans can shift, of course, flexibility is part of the journey. But right now, I’m really excited to build towards Amsterdam.
In conclusion: training is hard, planning is harder, and getting into marathons now requires a part-time job in logistics.
And for now…Japan awaits. I’ll do my best to run, eat well, and enjoy every minute.
Run to the next mile!
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