Organizing the 2008 World Four-in-Hand Driving Championship at the Mariënwaerdt Estate in Beesd provides some unique features.
Four-in-hand driving is a sport in which beautiful carriages and matching traditions are shown in two of the three competitions. A choice venue such as the historic Mariënwaerdt Estate will complete this picture.
The organization of this event requires much space and grounds- a minimum of 50 hectares, including (parking) areas to realize the event and to accommodate the spectators (50,000 spectators are expected on marathon day and 85,000 throughout the five competition days). Mariënwaerdt has these grounds at its disposal – the estate comprises around 900 hectares. Since combined carriage driving competitions are held at an enclosed venue/field nowadays, with the exception of the marathon phase, an event of this size will not endanger nature.
Typical Dutch scenic Landscape in the centre of the Betuwe alongside the river Linge, Highly suited for a 17 kilometre long marathon with eight, partly natural, obstacles. Excellent surroundings for sponsors, competitors and spectators.
