For the 14th time, the ATS Run was run last weekend. The organization could count on a large turnout of both runners and supporters on Sunday, June 25. The ATS Run is a recreational relay run to benefit charity. In addition to the relay run, there was also an individual run and a Kids Run. A total of €15,000 was raised for charity.

The streets of Merelbeke filled up the last weekend of June as usual with sports enthusiasts and supporters, who, like a large group of volunteers, gave the best of themselves for the good cause. The ATS Run is a fun and recreational running competition and is organized by ATS Group, with the cooperation of the Municipality of Merelbeke, World Runners, Athletics Association STAX and Police Zone Region Rhode & Schelde.

New concept

This year the concept was changed slightly: the ATS Run is still primarily a recreational relay run, but this year it was run by 5 runners covering 30km together. Participants cover 5km, 10km, 5km, 5km and 5km respectively. So no classic Ekiden as in previous editions. Those not running in teams were also welcome at the ATS Run. An individual run of 5 km and 10 km and a Kids Run (4 x 625 m relay per 4 kids) were also organized.

€15,000 for charity

The more runners, the greater the proceeds for charity. In total, ATS Run is supporting 3 charities this year: Stax Merelbeke (project on mental well-being in sports), Steevliet in Melle (support for children and young people in a vulnerable situation) and Ebergiste in Gavere (support for adults with mental disabilities). The proceeds of the run itself were further doubled by A.T.S. nv, where each of these 3 organizations were able to receive a check for €5,000.