Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport aired the race live in lounges
The iconic Dutch Elfstedentocht ice-skating race, a cherished tradition, was relived as a rerun due to climate change threatening its future. The 1985 race, marking its 40th anniversary, was aired live at Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport, attracting widespread interest. Originally scheduled for January, the race was canceled due to thin ice, with only three days’ notice before it was rescheduled for February 21. Over 16,000 skaters participated, with Evert van Benthem winning the men’s race in a record time of 6:47:44. The event, last held in 1997, remains a symbol of Dutch culture despite the challenges posed by rising temperatures.
