Vanomobil Camper Village at World Gravel Championships Leuven
The weekend from 4 to 6 October 2024 was a major cycling event for our country: the World Gravel Championships in Halle-Leuven. And of course a Vanomobil Camper Village could not be missing there! It was a weekend full of sportsmanship, ambiance and fine moments.
Vanomobil Camper Village Leuven
Traditionally, Vanomobil sets up the campsite for the participants in the World Gravel Championships to offer them all the peace and quiet they need to prepare for their important competition. After all, they travel from the farthest corners to the heart of Belgium to fight for the title of World Gravel Champion: we welcome Swedes, Finns, British, Dutch and Italians, but many local Belgian athletes will also try their luck. Venue of the event could not be other than the car park of the majestic Brabanthal in Leuven. On two sites at the majestic Brabanthal in Leuven, around 100 campers set up for an exciting weekend.
A weekend of sports with participants and customers
We wouldn't be Vanomobil if we didn't think of our own customers. On the basis of a competition, 10 winners with their family and their Vanomobil motorhome will get the chance to join our Camper Village and enjoy a VIP package. We eagerly look forward to seeing the motorhomes in Vanomobil colours among the many unfamiliar international number plates. As soon as all customers are installed, we gather for a welcome and introductory drink. The atmosphere is soon there: despite the different dialects, everyone speaks the same language when it comes to motorhomes.
At the crack of dawn, the baker brings fresh pistolets and coffee cakes to our campers. Despite the cold temperatures, we still decide to have a cosy breakfast together in the autumn sunshine. And so the mood was set: this day too would be conducted in a family atmosphere. While team Vanomobil guided the last campers to their spots, our guests explored the course and surroundings at their own pace. In the evening, we treated every attendee at the Camper Village to a portion of freshly baked fries in collaboration with our partner Thule. Despite the men still having to ride their race, no one can resist this delicious Belgian delicacy.
Cheering from the front row
Sunday, D-day for many riders, including especially the elite men that everyone is looking forward to with great anticipation. Decked out in hats, scarves and gloves, we pedal warmly to the centre of Leuven, where we will enjoy a nice afternoon next to the race route. Together with the customers, we choose a strategic spot right at the finish where we can follow from close by and watch on a big screen. What an ambiance! We laughed together and cheered the riders to victory. But we also shared in disappointment such as the moment of the flat tyre of a customer's son-in-law.
Our world champion, Marijke de Smedt
This is how the weekend comes to an end. Our best supporters are and always will be our customers! Thanks for cheering!
We are happy and proud to be part of such an impressive organisation and top performances. But we are most proud of our own world champion: Marijke de Smedt conquers the highest podium place in her category! Congratulations!
