Strontrace and Beurtveer sailing races begin in the Netherlands

The traditional sailing races Strontrace and Beurtveer have officially commenced in the Netherlands.

Strontrace involves a fleet of traditional cargo ships traveling from Friesland to Warmond. Skippers choose routes via Enkhuizen or Lelystad, with a mandatory stop in Oude Wetering to collect symbolic cargo consisting of jars of pickles. Upon arrival in Warmond, the ships unload symbolic manure bags and are received by the local mayor.

Simultaneously, the Beurtveer race is underway, featuring a three-day voyage across the IJsselmeer and Markermeer. The fleet aims to sail from Workum to Amsterdam as quickly as possible, stopping at various Zuiderzee ports along the way.