Ολλανδία

Ημ. Γέννησης: 1967

Γένος: Άρρεν

Σύντομο Βιογραφικό:
I am a 59-year-old ultrarunner with ankylosing spondylitis (Bechterew’s disease). I am married, a police officer, a veteran, and above all a sportsman who always tries to focus on the positive side of life. I started ultrarunning in 2017 and have continued to improve my performances every year, despite my age and physical limitations. In both 2024 and 2025, I successfully finished the Ultrabalaton in Hungary. In 2025, I also started the legendary Spartathlon. Unfortunately, after sustaining an injury earlier in the race, I had to stop after 164 km. I started the 2026 season stronger than ever. I ran my fastest 100 miles so far at the Dutch HOHO 100 Mile, finishing in under 20 hours. I also had a strong finish at the UTMB Tarawera 100 Mile in New Zealand under very challenging weather conditions. These performances gave me great confidence for another attempt at the Spartathlon in 2026. Unfortunately, my plans suddenly changed when I suffered a complete Achilles tendon rupture. As a result, I had no choice but to withdraw from the 2026 Spartathlon. My focus now is on making a full recovery and hopefully returning to the starting line one day to finish what I started. Realistically, 2027 will probably come too soon, so I hope to return in 2028, provided I am fortunate enough to receive a starting place. For me, the Spartathlon represents much more than a race. It is a way of showing that with the right mindset, determination and perseverance, much more is possible than we sometimes think. I hope my journey can inspire others to keep pursuing their goals, even when facing physical limitations or unexpected setbacks. I wish all runners taking part in this year’s Spartathlon the very best of luck, strength and perseverance on the long road from Athens to Sparta. Enjoy this incredible journey, and I hope to join you again one day. Alexander Schaap