Date: Monday, 20 October 2025
"It was my first half marathon, but I'd never run in such a beautiful setting. It was wonderful to run past all those iconic locations in Antwerp. So many people cheering me on—I'd never experienced that before. It was so empowering." Daniel wasn't the only one from the Red Cross Shelter Linkeroever who braved the Antwerp Marathon. Seven other residents and two support workers also ran. They were cheered on across the Meir by an enthusiastic team and rewarded with flowers and water at the finish line.
Daniel trained daily for the marathon with his coaches. And he won't be sitting still to achieve his next goals. Next weekend, he'll tackle an eight-kilometer trail run. "In my youth, I always played soccer, but as a student, about six years ago, I switched to athletics. A few weeks ago, I finished third in a five-kilometer race. I actually prefer shorter distances and am better at them. A new sports club in Burcht noticed me then. They sponsor and coach me now. They also provide my sports equipment, like shoes."
"Every time I train, I think about how far I've come, and that gives me the strength to keep going." And Daniel means that literally, because the journey from Eritrea wasn't easy either. "Discipline, passion, and hope are the three elements you need. My ultimate dream is to compete in the Olympic Games and become world champion. If you have a goal and work hard, anything is possible."
