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From airport to finish line: how Munckhof handles transportation for major sporting events

What began at the Floriade in 2012 has grown into a permanent branch of Munckhof's business: transportation for major events. Today, Munckhof coordinates transport for sporting events such as the European Indoor Athletics Championships, the KLM Open, the World Cup Short Track, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Zandvoort. From picking up athletes at the airport to shuttle services for the public. Hans Bartels, manager of Munckhof Reizen, is currently working on preparations for the European Indoor Athletics Championships, which will take place in Apeldoorn from March 6 to 9. He explains what is involved in arranging transportation for events of this magnitude.

Smart preparation

Organizing event transportation begins months in advance. “We draw up a detailed transport plan that sets out all the routes and timetables,” says Bartels. “This kind of plan is a requirement of the European Athletics Union, but we go further: every route is explored in advance by coach, from hotels to sports venues and parking lots. We do everything we can to avoid surprises.”

The first days leading up to an event

Six days before the start of an event, Munckhof begins transporting athletes and staff. “We pick them up from airports and take them to their hotels,” explains Bartels. We then provide transportation between hotels and training locations. Once the event begins, we drive teams to the competition venues and back again in coaches."

During the event

During the European Indoor Athletics Championships, Munckhof not only arranges transportation for athletes, but also for the public. "We coordinate shuttle services between a central parking lot and Omnisport. We also manage a fleet of 30 passenger cars,“ says Bartels. ”Five cars are driven by our experienced drivers, while volunteers from EventMakers drive the other cars. These vehicles are used for ad hoc transport, for example for athletes who still need to go to the competition venue after a medical check-up."

Customized transport

Munckhof also transports special sports equipment, such as pole vaulting poles. “Our drivers are flexible and can also transport larger sports equipment,” says Bartels. “Sports events always require customized solutions. For example, coaches are never fully booked, because athletes bring a lot of extra luggage, such as massage tables and special food.”

Reliable partner

With more than ten years of experience, Munckhof knows what it takes to provide successful event transport. “Good preparation and tight coordination are essential,” concludes Bartels. “We ensure that participants and visitors can focus fully on the event. Whether it's athletes, VIPs, or special luggage, Munckhof takes care of everything from the airport to the finish line.”

If you have any questions about transportation for (sports) events or would like to know what Munckhof can do for you, please contact us.