ORIGIN OF THE CRITERIUM
HSLC also continues in 2026
Looking ahead to the future, we are proud to announce that we will continue in 2026 with the same approach — the same warm atmosphere, the same strong cooperation, and the same passion for running. The HSLC continues to grow, but especially in connectedness and sporting spirit. We look forward to meeting you again at one or more races of the HSLC 2026 season. Together, we continue to build on this beautiful success story that keeps Central and South Limburg moving!
HSLC 2024-2025
What started as an ambitious initiative in 2022 has since grown into a permanent fixture in the Limburg running world. Thanks to the growing involvement of participants and organizers, the HSLC remains a household name — a meeting place for runners of all levels where sportsmanship and friendship go hand in hand. In 2024 and 2025, we continued this enthusiasm, with a calendar full of challenging races and a strong community of runners. The closing party in Kortessem was always a highlight, where we honored all loyal participants who took part in at least 10 races.
The success story continues
In 2023, this success resulted in an expansion to 16 races. We also introduced the 'fixed bib number', which proved to be a great success. With a total of 102 fixed numbers in 2023 and no fewer than 162 in 2024, the bond between the runners and the criterium grew.
Origin of the criterium 2021
The idea for the criterium arose in 2021, after the disappearance of the Haspengouw Challenge and the Victors Cup. When the third corona wave subsided, the desire to build something back "from scratch" grew. Three test races proved more successful than expected: 216 participants started in Alken, 283 in Boekt and the short series concluded with the Kerkenloop in Kortessem with 305 participants.
A dedicated new team took responsibility for giving amateur runners from South Limburg and the surrounding area the chance to practice their favorite sport at a semi-competitive level in their own region. We consciously chose a small-scale approach where recreational runners can also experience their passion in a friendly atmosphere.