On Thursday morning, June 6, 2024, the very first edition of the Dak tot Dakloop took place, a unique running race across Amsterdam's rooftops, organized by the Rooftop Revolution foundation. This race was launched on World Green Roof Day to draw attention to the many derelict roofs in the city that have potential for green and multifunctional applications.
The Roof to Roof Run was made possible by Rooftop Revolution's partners, including organizations with sustainable ambitions and specialists in multifunctional roofing systems. This pilot event provided a taste of what will be an even larger and open race for outside parties next year. Participants were challenged with not only their running skills and endurance but also tough questions about roofs along the way. With each quiz question they answered correctly, they could earn time deductions.
The event started and ended at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel's green rooftop bar, where rousing music created an energetic atmosphere. The first challenge was a puzzle where participants had to line up parts of a blue-green roof in the correct order. Only then were they allowed to run up the steps of the hotel to the roof terrace of Hannekes Boom.
The route of over 5 kilometers and about 85 meters in elevation took participants past houseboats with green roofs on the Dijksgracht, past a blue-green roof on the Marineterrein, and the multifunctional roof of NEMO. There a cheerful drum band enthusiastically encouraged the runners to run up and down the 110 steps of NEMO. The route ended back on the roof of DoubleTree with one last tricky knowledge question.
After the race, Rooftop Revolution calculated the winner; for each correct answer, participants received a half-minute deduction from their running time. Although Tom van der Heuvel of Zoontjens set the fastest time, Victor Adèr of BMI Group scored better on the questions and was awarded the first Dak tot Dakloop trophy. During the rooftop lunch at DoubleTree, participants discussed the race and enjoyed the beautiful view over the rooftops of Amsterdam.
Looking back?
For a brief impression of this Roof to Roof Run, please visit this video view.
Participate in the next edition! Are you or is your organization interested in participating in the Roof to Roof Run on June 6, 2025? Or would you like to sign up as a sponsor? Then sign up here fixed to.