Dodentocht campers unfazed by heat, rely on experience and cooling systems

Despite forecasts of high temperatures, campers arriving for the Dodentocht 100-kilometer walk in Bornem are expressing a relaxed attitude towards the heat.

Organizers are implementing measures to help participants cope, including a misting system to provide cooling, particularly for those returning after their grueling walk. "We are prepared for it, with a misting system among other things to provide cooling," said Cel Van Nieuwenhove, the camping coordinator. "That will certainly be interesting after their participation, when they arrive back here on Saturday. Until then, we assume that our – often experienced – campers will use their common sense and seek sufficient shelter."

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We are prepared for it, with a misting system among other things to provide cooling. That will certainly be interesting after their participation, when they arrive back here on Saturday. Until then, we assume that our – often experienced – campers will use their common sense and seek sufficient shelter.

Many participants, like Dutch couple Marthè and Jeanne Moors, have strategically chosen shaded spots. Jeanne, embarking on her 21st Dodentocht, remains unfazed, having experienced both hot and cold editions. "If your head is in the right place, you'll keep walking," she stated, emphasizing mental fortitude.

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If your head is in the right place, you'll keep walking.

Long-time camper Oswald de Vulder, from Astene, has been participating for 16 years and finds the event a welcoming tradition. He dismisses concerns about shortening the event, pointing out that the majority of the 100 kilometers are walked during the cooler evening and nighttime hours. "I understand all the commotion about possibly shortening it. Haven't participants had enough opportunity to train in this warm weather in recent weeks? Besides, if you start walking on Friday evening at 9 p.m., you'll cover about 60 of the 100 kilometers during the cooler hours in the first 12 hours," he explained.

De Vulder also noted the solidarity of local residents, who often offer refreshments like watermelon or water. However, he prefers not to be sprayed with a garden hose when his body is warm from walking, suggesting that cooling cloths are a more comfortable alternative.

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I understand all the commotion about possibly shortening it. Haven't participants had enough opportunity to train in this warm weather in recent weeks? Besides, if you start walking on Friday evening at 9 p.m., you'll cover about 60 of the 100 kilometers during the cooler hours in the first 12 hours.