The Amsterdam Marathon marks its 50th anniversary on Sunday, showcasing a remarkable transformation from a small, local event to a world-renowned race. This year’s event will feature thirty thousand marathon runners and fifteen thousand half-marathon participants, a stark contrast to the approximately three hundred mostly male runners in 1975.

Gerard Nijboer’s historic 1980 victory, where he set a European record of 2:09:01, remains a highlight of the Amsterdam Marathon. He recalls the chaotic conditions of the race, with trams still running and a lack of sophisticated pacing or support.

In its early years, the Amsterdam Marathon faced numerous challenges. Tjerk Vellinga, an early organizer, described the initial events as improvisational, relying on community support for water stations and assistance. The race followed the same route as the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, with the start and finish at the Olympic Stadium and a loop along the Amstel River.

The participation of women was initially discouraged, with limited facilities and the prevailing belief that marathons were harmful to women. Marja Wokke, who set a Dutch record in 1980, received little recognition at the time due to the focus on Nijboer’s achievement.

Since the 1990s, the Amsterdam Marathon has undergone significant professionalization, with organizations like Global Sports Communication and Le Champion playing key roles. Jos Hermens of Global Sports Communication focused on recruiting top athletes from Ethiopia and Kenya, while Le Champion streamlined the organization and promoted the event internationally.

The Amsterdam Marathon has become known for its fast, flat course, attracting world-class athletes from around the globe. While Tamirat Tola had to withdraw, Gabriel Geay, Joshua Cheptegei, and Tsegaye Getachew are among the favorites for this year’s race.

Today, the Amsterdam Marathon is embraced by the city, with increased involvement from spectators, businesses, and the catering industry. The race has evolved into a major celebration, reflecting the growing popularity of running and the marathon’s significance on the international stage.