After our launch event in Eindhoven, we return home to Oud-Berchem with our second Heart for Gaza event! Once we have completed our cycling, running, and walking routes in and around the city, we will come together for a lively street party in F. Coosemansstraat, which will be transformed for the occasion into a vibrant meeting place with food, drinks, and music.
Everything will be focused on our friends from the Gaza Sunbirds, with whom Mohammed and Alaa will join us that day.
An event organised by Koersklub Rood-Wit (B).
€11,559 raised
On March 30, we set off from Sint-Hubertus Church on Victor Jacobslei, in the heart of Oud-Berchem, for a unique gravel ride with a deeper purpose. We begin the day with a warm welcome and complimentary coffee and tea. At the start and finish location, you’ll find stands selling posters, T-shirts, and more—all proceeds going to support the inspiring Palestinian para-cycling club Gaza Sunbirds.
This route takes you through the river country in the south of the province, starting at Rivierenhof park and following the Albert Canal to Oelegem. You’ll ride through Lier’s picturesque centre, cross the Zennegat-Battenbroek nature reserve, and follow the Rupel River to its mouth at the Scheldt. Finally, you’ll explore Waasland before returning via Antwerp’s Left Bank and the bicycle tunnel under the Scheldt to Berchem.
After the ride, you can enjoy a delicious meal, prepared by Palestian chef Nour Elnono and served by volunteers—with all proceeds supporting Nours Kitchen for Gaza collaborating with the Sunbirds. DJ Papa Mojito will bring a unique blend of music from around the world (Latino, merengue, salsa, raï, soukous, cumbia, Balkan, Punjab …), mixed with a touch of folk and Dutch-world sounds. At parties, he’s also known to throw in some rock ‘n’ roll, electro swing, new wave, 60s-70s-80s classics, waltzes, and even dance music.
This is a wonderful opportunity to connect in a relaxed atmosphere with fellow cyclists, including Mohammed Abu Asfour and Alaa al-Dali from the Gaza Sunbirds.
Join us and let your heart race—during and after the ride! ❤️🚴
Disclaimer: The routes are made for its heart shape. So we crisscross residential areas, old industry sites, along rivers and canals, through for ests and parks. We alternate nicely paved bike paths with poorly maintained concrete slab roads and here and there you can expect an unpaved trail. You will definitely discover new paths you did not suspect existed! Really the thing for those who prefer adventure to high averages;-)
The route of the 95 km heart is dominated by the regio Waasland and the river country in the south of the province.
Starting in Berchem, you’ll ride through the bicycle tunnel under the Scheldt to Antwerp’s Left Bank. From there, you’ll meander past bulbous fields and pollarded willows towards Beveren and Haasdonk in the sweet Waasland.
Next, you’ll arrive in Rupelmonde, the town where the famous cartographer Mercator was born and has his statue. You’ll make a small detour via the ferry between Bazel and Hemiksem, as the ferry in Wintham only opens in April.
Following the river Rupel to its mouth in the Scheldt, you’ll pass Heindonk and its pond Hazenwinkel, the largest rowing and kayaking infrastructure in the country. You’ll then cross the Zennegat-Battenbroek nature reserve and head towards Mechelen.
Along the banks of the Nete, you’ll ride towards Lier, where you can enjoy a loop through the centre of this picturesque town and its beguinage. Continuing along the old tramway bedding between Lier and Broechem, you’ll reach Oelegem.
Finally, you’ll follow the towpath alongside the Albert Canal to Wijnegem and ride through Rivierenhof park to complete your journey.
Enjoy your ride! 🚴♂️
Join us for a heartwarming community meal in support of war victims in Gaza. This special afternoon will bring together neighbors, cyclists, runners, and walkers from all walks of life to enjoy a festive meal while contributing to a vital cause. Food will be prepared by Palestinian chef Nour Elnono.
Café ROOD-WIT in Oud-Berchem, once known for its billiard history, no longer features the game. Today, it’s a cozy gathering spot where the café cycling team “ROOD-WIT” and locals enjoy drinks and community, while its nostalgic charm endures.