24 hours around Bootjesven

Henk Strybos is taking on a tough challenge for nature. As part of Straffe Stoot, Natuurpunt's fundraising campaign for nature reserves, he will be cycling for 24 hours for a good cause. From Saturday, July 4 at 4:00 PM to Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 4:00 PM, Henk will be riding continuous laps of approximately eleven kilometers through the spacious surroundings of the Bootjesven in Wortel-Kolonie. Along the way, he will pass many special places, such as the UNESCO-Werelderfgoed van Wortel-Colony with the vagrants' cemetery, the Vallei van het Merkske visitor center – De Klapekster, and the Castelreesche Heide. Anyone who feels like cycling a lap is more than welcome, although Henk sets the pace himself. A contribution of 10 euros in a specially adapted boot is particularly appreciated. You can also easily sponsor via the Straffe Stoot for nature website of Natuurpunt, or via the QR code. The entire proceeds of this campaign will go to De Laars, the Baelbrugsche Beemden in the Vallei van het Merkske. This special nature reserve is largely located in Baarle-Hertog, wedged in by the Netherlands like a near-enclave. On the map, the area has the shape of a boot, which also explains the name. Voor Henk, this is also a place with personal significance, because the area is closely connected to his roots. Natuurpunt Markvallei already carried out important nature restoration works here in 2024-2025, and that work will continue in full force in 2026-2027. After all, there is still much to do to fully restore De Laars and sustainably secure the area for the future. To give this campaign extra strength, the volunteers of Natuurpunt Markvallei visitor center De Klapekster will keep it open for the entire 24 hours. Everyone who wants to sponsor, support, or just cycle a bit is very welcome there. In addition, extra initiatives are being organized to further support the campaign financially. It is now clear that tough streaks run in the Strybos family. Zoon Seppe previously ran a marathon along the river Mark for the benefit of Natuurpunt Markvallei's operations. But it looks like father Henk's tough streak might be just a little bit tougher. Would you like to support this campaign? Then visit www.natuurpuntmarkvallei.be