WILLEMSTAD – The annual Ride for the Roses fundraiser is set to take place on Sunday, January 26, to support the Prinses Wilhelminafonds. This year, the event introduces the brand-new "Run for the Roses" and features a slight change in the route for the Walk for the Roses.
The Walk for the Roses kicks off at 7:00 a.m. from Brionplein, as per tradition. However, the route has been extended by 300 meters, now totaling 8.1 kilometers. Walkers descending the Juliana Bridge will bypass Waaigat, instead heading through Scharloo. The new route passes the Prinses Wilhelminafonds building, with a water station located near Corendon-Ritz Village on the Scharlooweg.
Run for the Roses
A significant addition this year is the "Run for the Roses." Runners will start a few minutes before the walkers and follow the same 8.1-kilometer route. Previously, participants unofficially raced through the course, but the new category formalizes their efforts. Children can also participate in a shorter 2-kilometer "Run for the Roses," starting at Chaya Willemsschool near the Penstraat and ending at Mambo Beach via Marie Pompoen Beach.
Ride, Swim & Surf Events
The Ride for the Roses will start at 8:00 a.m., with no changes to its route. The Walk for the Roses continues to offer a 5-kilometer shorter option, which avoids the Juliana Bridge by crossing the Emmabrug pontoon bridge instead.
The Swim for the Roses, a 2.7-kilometer swim, begins at midday from Jan Thiel Beach, ending at Wet & Wild.
The Surf for the Roses, originally scheduled for January 26, has been postponed to later in the year. This decision allows volunteers and safety teams to focus on the Swim for the Roses.
Registration and Information
Participants can find more details and register for the 2025 edition on the official Ride for the Roses website.