JP Balki Event

The JP Balki Event is a charity running race in Heeze, a village in North Brabant, starting on Boschlaan in the town center. Held in April, it includes timed races from short distances to a half marathon. Distances listed include 3 km, 7 km, 10 or 11 km, 14 km, and 21 km. The race honors Jean-Paul Balkestein, who passed away from cardiac arrest while jogging at 32. The event carries a personal local story alongside its sporting aspect. The routes follow roads and paths around Kasteel Heeze, extending into nature areas managed by Brabants Landschap and Staatsbosbeheer. Participants are asked to respect these reserves, avoiding damage or pollution on the course. The event supports the Amsterdam UMC Foundation, funding experimental medical research, and Stichting Hartekind, which finances research into childhood heart defects. This dual purpose allows participants to race a set distance, join in local remembrance, and support the charities connected to the event's cause.