Bruges Marathon: Daan De Bock and Lynn Anthierens triumph in the capital of West Flanders

Proof of running’s growing appeal, the Athora Bruges Marathon drew 12,000 passionate runners, a record since its launch in 2017. In the historic heart of West Flanders’ capital, Belgians Daan De Bock (2:26:37) and Lynn Anthierens (2:58:17) took the honours.

9,000 runners last year. 12,000 on Sunday. 15,000 in 2026? The Venice of the North is drawing more runners from every corner of Europe. French, Dutch, British and, of course, Belgian. Sold out for the first time in its history, the Bruges Marathon confirmed its status as one of the country’s major events. With the start at 10 a.m., runners followed the Damme Canal towards the medieval charms of the village before finishing, as usual, on the cobbles of the Markt.

The Belgians swept the top spots. A five-man group moved clear shortly after halfway, but it was Daan De Bock who raised his arms at the finish. Leading from start to finish (33:59 at 10K, 1:12:02 at halfway), the runner who set a 10K PB of 32:19 in Gentbrugge on March 9 completed the 42.195 km in 2:26:37. Loic Lemaitre (2:27:21) and Joren Van dorpe (2:30:36) completed the podium, while the first Frenchman, radiologist at Valenciennes Hospital, Thibault Poclet finished 16th in 2:40:37. In the women’s race, Lynn Anthierens prevailed after a head-to-head battle with fellow Belgian Ann-Sofie Claeys (2:58:17 to 2:58:18). Britain’s Victoria Primmer also made her mark, finishing third in 3:02:12.

Ruban Cornelus and Mélissa Benoumeur dominate the half marathon

She may be over 40, but she is still collecting medals. Mélissa Benoumeur once again showcased her talent by winning the half marathon. The only woman under 1:20 (1:19:55), the Belgian eased off slightly between 15 and 20 km, covering that stretch in 19:32 compared with 18:43 for the opening five kilometres. She finished ahead of Ingrid Spelmans (1:21:15) and Gwendolyn De Deyne (1:21:40). The men’s race was run at close to 20 km/h. After a breathless finish, Ruban Cornelus got the better of Aaron Decloedt (1:07:40 to 1:07:41). Dutchman Jarno Albers was also in the final battle, finishing third in 1:07:46.

The fast times almost overshadowed the organisers’ commitments. Sustainability was at the heart of this edition, with reusable cups rolled out across the course and runners encouraged to travel by train from Brussels or Antwerp. For the first time in Belgium, “ladies-only boxes” were installed at every aid station, giving women access to tampons and sanitary pads. The initiative will return at the Antwerp Marathon on October 19 and the Brussels Marathon on November 2. The Venice of the North has worked its magic once again.

Against a unique backdrop, in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bruges Marathon delivered a string of standout performances, with Belgian runners taking most of the top spots. In a friendly atmosphere, the capital of West Flanders provided the stage for an unforgettable morning.