Bonaire

Ride for the Roses 2025: Great Success with a Record Number of Participants

KRALENDIJK – On February 2, the annual Ride for the Roses took place, a sporting event that gives participants the opportunity to walk, run, cycle, or swim. The proceeds support the cancer fund on Bonaire. This year’s turnout was larger than ever, with a total of 1,053 participants.

The event officially started at 7:00 AM, with the cyclists setting off first. Shortly after, the walkers and runners began their routes. About 75% of participants chose to walk or run, while the remaining athletes took on the challenge of cycling or swimming. Additionally, 54 children participated, highlighting the event’s accessibility for all ages.

Board member Coen van Gennip looks back on this edition with satisfaction: “I think this was the best edition so far. The atmosphere was incredibly positive, and the location was perfect. It was the most attended edition to date, and we had no fewer than 50 volunteers assisting.”

Photo – ABC Online Media

Sporting Events More Popular Than Ever

The increasing popularity of sporting events like Ride for the Roses is also evident from other successful events on Bonaire. Registration for the 2024 Regattaloop, organized by Comcabon, had to be closed early due to an overwhelming number of sign-ups. The Guardian Run last year also attracted many runners and walkers.

Sustainable Measures and Traffic-Free Roads

What made this edition of Ride for the Roses particularly special was the organization’s sustainable approach. Along the long-distance running route, three water stations were set up with cardboard cups. Waste was minimized in a smart way: 50 meters past each water station, a volunteer was ready with a garbage bag to collect the cups, keeping nature clean—an approach never before implemented on Bonaire.

Along the route, several volunteers with flags helped guide the athletes in the right direction. Additionally, Sunday morning traffic was minimal, allowing participants to enjoy the event without interference from vehicles. This concept, where roads are temporarily cleared for athletes, is common in cities across Colombia on Sundays. While roads on Bonaire were still accessible to traffic, early morning activity was minimal.

Photo – ABC Online Media

Future Plans: Ride for the Roses 2026

It is not yet known how much money was raised this year; the organization is still calculating the total. In 2026, Ride for the Roses will celebrate its 10th edition. The organization has announced that it is looking for new board members to make this anniversary year even more special.

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