‘Molecaten Ruiterdag’: Hattem's showpiece

For decades it has been a spectacular poster that was proudly displayed in the Hattem calendar: the ‘Molecaten Ruiterdag’ (cross-country event). In 2025 it will take place on Saturday 18 October. It is a cross-country event that is much more than just horse riding. "It really is a unique experience that offers something for everyone", team leader Wichert Fikse states about this festival for saddle heroes. And this uniqueness is not least due to the location. "The walk itself is very special. Of course the estate is beautiful in itself, but on this day you can also access places where you are normally not allowed to walk. This really makes this day quite special."

More than 250 volunteers are active at the ‘Molecaten Ruiterdag’. They are, Fikse proudly states, the heart and foundation of the event. "The sense of community is something in which Hattem distinguishes itself. It has become a closely-knit group." And they are not necessarily all people with a heart for equestrian sports. “I estimate that half of them actually have nothing to do with horse riding,” says the team leader smiling. “But they just think the event itself is wonderful and great to be part of.”

Thanks to the many volunteers, the spectacle has increased a lot in size. “Over the years, also people with a bit more ambition joined us, and a good flow in a group will make you go faster as a team. We really have the wind in our sails. But we know it can also pass, it is and remains human work of course.”

Fikse praises the willingness of the ‘Hattemers’. “We try very hard to involve the community and therefore we also involve local entrepreneurs wherever possible. This is perfectly feasible, because the event is held close to the town, which makes it easily accessible.”

The ‘Ruiterdag’ is not only easily accessible because of the short distance, but also literally easily accessible because admission is free. “It is a conscious choice not to charge an entrance fee in order to keep the threshold as low as possible. This is also the feedback we get from visitors; that it is great to be able to walk around here with the whole family free of charge. And that is ultimately why we do it.”