WILLEMSTAD – The 19th annual Ride for the Roses, set to take place this Sunday, marks a significant change as it becomes the first edition without physical roses. In an effort to adopt a more sustainable approach, the organizing foundation has introduced commemorative tokens as an alternative. Chairman Benno van Leeuwen unveiled the new token in an interview with Curaçao.nu.
For years, roses used in the event were often left scattered in the parking area at the Mambo Beach Boulevard finish line. Moreover, importing the roses proved costly and had a considerable ecological impact. "To provide participants with a tangible keepsake, we’ve introduced the token," said Van Leeuwen. The token is a special coin featuring the Ride for the Roses logo, designed to serve as a meaningful memento.
Much like the roses in previous editions, participants can place the token at the grave of a loved one who passed away from cancer, preserving the emotional connection behind the gesture.
Updated Walk Route
The Walk for the Roses route has been slightly modified this year. After descending from the Julianabrug, walkers will turn right near The Movies, pass the De Vijf Zinnen parking lot, and continue onto Scharlooweg. Along the route, walkers will pass the headquarters of the Prinses Wilhelminafonds. A new water station has been set up on Scharlooweg, courtesy of a new sponsor, Corendon.
Introducing the Run for the Roses
A new addition to the event, the Run for the Roses, offers participants an 8-kilometer or 5-kilometer run. The run starts slightly earlier than the Walk for the Roses, and participants will receive official race numbers. The event is officially registered with the Curaçao Athletics Federation.
Rumors suggest that sprinter Churandy Martina might fire the starting gun and possibly participate in one of the races. However, Van Leeuwen could not confirm this at the time of the announcement.
Traditional Events Continue
Other signature events, including the Swim for the Roses from Zanzibar to Wet & Wild Beach Club and the Ride for the Roses cycling routes of 40 kilometers, 60 kilometers, and an easy ride, will proceed as in previous years.
Registration Details
Participation costs 25 guilders for one event or 35 guilders for multiple events. Registration is available online at www.ridefortheroses.net or in person at Orco Bank from Monday to Friday between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
The Ride for the Roses continues to inspire hope and unity while promoting sustainability in its fight against cancer.