Rotterdam Marathon

Many thousands of runners will be taking to the streets of Rotterdam this April to take part in the city's marathon.

The runners and onlookers will have the chance to see some of Rotterdam's finest architectures and attractions, with the finish line at Coosingel.

It was first run in 1981, with John Graham from the UK taking the title with a time of two hours, nine minutes. In a country famed for its flat terrain, the marathon course does not challenge runners with hills and slopes.

Taking place on April 13th, it attracts many athletes from the Netherlands and also from further afield, as well as many people who want to get involved, visit the city and raise money for good causes. They can choose between the full race and the amateur race which is 10km.

The marathon sees runners head out on a course of 42km and 195 metres. Competitors must complete the circuit in less than five hours. They must be over 18 years old or 15 for the amateur race.