Dear running friends,
What proved to be a triumph in 2022 is only growing stronger in 2023. Instead of the 11 organizations that joined in 2022, we received spontaneous requests to affiliate with the Helpshop Running Criterium, resulting in an expansion to 16 races—a clear testament that the Helpshop Criterium is on the right track. The 2022 season concluded with a wonderful closing event at the Burchtheem hall in Brustem, an occasion that will long be remembered.
In 2023, even more participants joined, and we introduced the ‘fixed bib number,’ issuing a total of 102 fixed numbers. The sports year seemed to fly by, and our closing event was held in Wellen this time to comfortably accommodate all participants. A delightful pasta buffet, offered by the Helpshop Criterium, was served as a token of appreciation for their loyalty and commitment.
Of course, we must recognize the driving forces behind the scenes: the organizers and the many volunteers. Their tireless dedication and commitment at each race are the heartbeat of the Helpshop Criterium. Without them, it would be impossible to organize such well-coordinated, safe, and enjoyable events.
Their passion for running and their willingness to invest time and energy ensure the smooth execution of every event. From managing logistics and setting up the courses to creating a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere—their contribution is indispensable.
Though their work may not always be visible, its impact is significant. These unsung heroes make the Helpshop Criterium a success year after year.
We look forward to the 2024 season, which already promises to be exceptional with no fewer than 162 fixed bib numbers issued. This enthusiasm is a sign that we are on track for another successful year. We hope to welcome you to one or more of our events.
We wish you success and enjoyment in 2024!
We look forward to sharing another fantastic running season with you.
Dear running friend,
For 25 years, the Haspengouw Challenge existed in South Limburg, founded in 1992.
It was the only road racing criterium for about 20 years, bringing years of success and enjoyment to runners throughout the region. Over time, however, interest in the format gradually declined, and participation numbers began to dwindle.
Meanwhile, a new initiative, the Victors Cup, emerged in Southeast Limburg, with a modernized approach that quickly grew in popularity, offering around 6 races with increasing success.
In 2017, the committee of the Haspengouw Challenge decided to disband.
For several years, the Victors Cup was the only road criterium in Limburg, but in 2019, its organizers sought a successor for the event.
Unfortunately, no successor was found, leaving Limburg, likely as the only province in the country, without a running criterium.
In early 2020, however, the entire situation changed.
A global pandemic disrupted all activities, including those for amateur runners.
Events were halted, and few dared to think about organizing a race.
This didn’t stop individuals from running, but they did so individually or in pairs. Yet, the desire to compete and put training to the test persisted.
As the third wave of the pandemic subsided in spring 2021, a small group of enthusiasts decided to start rebuilding a criterium from scratch in Limburg.
Although the year was already halfway through, three events volunteered to participate in a mini-criterium test, which, to everyone’s surprise, proved highly successful.
In Alken, 216 participants (85 + 131) showed up at the starting line, Boekt attracted 283 (114 + 169), and the short season concluded with the Kerkenloop in Kortessem, with 305 participants (154 + 151). An increasing trend.
The initiators fully believed in this new project, and thanks to the positive impact of this success during pandemic times, we are proud to announce that 11 organizations have stepped forward to build a full-fledged criterium for 2022.
This provides a strong foundation for the inaugural year, and additional organizations may join in the coming weeks.
The races are spread across the year, with a monthly race from February through October, peaking in June.
A dedicated new team has taken the reins to offer amateur runners from South Limburg and surrounding areas the chance to practice their favorite sport at a semi-competitive level in their own region.
We have deliberately chosen to keep the events small-scale to allow recreational runners of all levels to enjoy their sport in a friendly, welcoming environment. Runners of all levels are warmly invited to join us.
We look forward to welcoming many of you to our events.