Two winters ago, after a Wednesday run, a small group of slightly tipsy, overly optimistic Midnight Runners had a brilliant idea: “Let’s run an ultra!”

Mike casually mentioned 11 Strandentocht, a Dutch coastal challenge from Den Haag to Zandvoort, raising money for heart disease research. So, naturally, after a few drinks, we signed up. 🍻

Then we forgot about it.

For months.

Until race day.

A brave (or stupid) group of 6–7 Midnight Runners showed up and discovered that this was, without a doubt, the coldest, hardest and most miserable run we had ever done. 🥶

But we finished.

Instead of medals, we got little trail markers/tags. And everyone except Mike said:

“NEVER. AGAIN.”

Fast-forward one year…

Guess what? Almost everyone who swore they would never do it again is already signed up. 😂

And this time, we’re DOUBLE the size. Because apparently we learned absolutely nothing.

So here we go again:
11 Strandentocht – 31 October 2026. 🌊

There are several distances to choose from: 5K, 12,5 25and 50K. Most of us, obviously, have chosen the 50K. Because apparently once wasn’t enough. 😂

But a few brave (and slightly more sensible) Midnight Runners are taking on the shorter distances — so there’s something for everyone!

For the 50K crew: starting at 6 AM. In the cold. For 50 kilometres. Because… why not?

Why are we doing it?

Because we’re crazy.
Because we love a challenge.
Because we enjoy suffering together.
And mostly because it gives us something to complain about for the next 12 months. 😂

If you’re as crazy as us — join us! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️🔥

🔗 Registration link below — although we have absolutely no idea if there are any tickets left!

https://www.11strandentocht.nl/campagne

More info, logistics and questionable life choices will be shared in the event chat.

See you at 6 AM. Bring layers. And maybe a therapist. 😈