Mikky Keetels, a stewardess who uses ChatGPT to create her training schedules, achieved a remarkable third-place finish at the Amsterdam City Marathon in the Dutch National Championship. This accomplishment came during her first official marathon race this Sunday.

Anne Luijten secured her third national title with a time of 2.28.26, followed by Jill Holterman (2.28.58) in second place, while Keetels claimed bronze with a time of 2.31.21. Keetels’ story is particularly compelling, as she balances her athletic pursuits with her career as a stewardess, training in various locations worldwide.

The Amsterdam City Marathon, which also served as the Dutch National Championship, showcased a mix of professional athletes and runners with day jobs. Many of the Dutch marathon runners, including Holterman (a lawyer) and Luijten (a municipal official), balance their athletic careers with full-time employment.

Khalid Choukoud secured his fourth consecutive title in 2.07.59, although he faces financial challenges as the only full-time Dutch marathon runner in Amsterdam. Geoffrey Toroitich Kipchumba from Kenya won the race with a new course record of 2.03.29. Kipchumba was among the professional athletes who depend on the sport for a living, contrasting with the Dutch runners who require additional income sources.

The marathon included prominent figures like Tom Dumoulin and Erben Wennemars. Luijten emphasized the necessity of her work to cover fixed costs. Keetels plans to resume her work schedule with KLM flights, with a potential to run the New York marathon. Keetels has her sights set on the 2028 Olympic Games but plans to continue balancing her running with her career.