PREPARATION FOR THE JERUSALEM–AMSTERDAM ULTRA RUN
How a 4,500 km vision became a real journey of body, mind, and purpose
Preparing for an ultramarathon is never simple. Preparing for an ultrarun stretching from Jerusalem to Amsterdam – across deserts, borders, mountains, winter storms, and multiple countries – is something few people can imagine. For Martin Mes, however, this challenge became a mission of heart and endurance, shaped by his personal battle with diabetes and his belief in the power of movement.
This page shares the full story of the preparation phase: the training, the planning, the emotional groundwork, and the countless small steps that made the start on 16 September possible.
A Dream Born from Determination
Martin Mes was diagnosed with diabetes in the mid-1990s. Like many people receiving such a diagnosis, he faced uncertainty and fear about how the condition might change his life. But Martin chose a different path – he chose to run.
Running quickly became his lifeline and his method of taking control over his health. Day by day, kilometer by kilometer, he discovered that movement did more than strengthen his body – it strengthened his resolve. In 1999 he placed first among Dutch veterans in major marathon events. But soon, even marathons were not enough.
Together with supporters and health advocates, Martin began envisioning something greater: a symbolic ultrarun that would demonstrate what is possible when you combine discipline, careful management of diabetes, and unwavering passion.
The idea for the Jerusalem–Amsterdam ultraloop was born.
Training in Israel: A Crucible of Heat, Terrain, and Focus
To prepare for the official start, Martin traveled to Israel, where he spent months conditioning his body for the extreme challenge ahead.
His daily schedule included:
- Early morning long-distance sessions to manage heat
- Midday strength and mobility work
- Evening runs across uneven desert and mountain terrain
- Strict nutritional control for stable blood glucose
- Deep recovery routines, including massage, stretching, and rest
Israel’s landscape – dusty roads, steep ascents, ancient paths – offered the perfect testing ground. Martin learned what it meant to run hour after hour with only his team, his mission, and the road ahead.
During this period, he also worked closely with medical professionals to fine-tune his diabetes management. Understanding how the body reacts during long efforts, how to respond to sudden sugar drops, and how to pack medical supplies for remote regions were all integral parts of the preparation.
Building a Team of Strength
Behind every ultrarunner stands a team. For Martin, this included drivers, masseurs, logistical planners, medical advisors, and mental supporters.
Team members rotated throughout the journey, but each played a crucial role:
- Masseurs kept muscles from collapsing under the daily marathon distances.
- Drivers navigated unfamiliar terrain, ensuring safety and rest.
- Support crew prepared meals, monitored glucose levels, and handled gear.
- Family provided emotional strength through calls, letters, and scheduled visits.
Although several team members had to leave earlier than expected, their contribution during the preparation phase laid the foundation for the run’s success.
Logistical Planning: Moving Across Nations
The preparation phase was not only physical – it was heavily logistical.
Martin and his team needed to plan:
- Cross-border travel requirements
- Navigating areas with limited infrastructure
- Ensuring safe running paths in each country
- Arranging rest stops, food, and medical support
- Communicating with local organizations and authorities
- Securing a support vehicle capable of traveling thousands of kilometers
Maps were studied, routes were tested, backup plans were created, and the support team trained alongside Martin to ensure they could maintain the pace and consistency of the project.
The Start: 16 September
With months of training behind him, a support team beside him, and a global community cheering him on, Martin stood at the starting point in Jerusalem on 16 September. Ahead lay thousands of kilometers – through Israel, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Greece, Italy, France, Belgium, and finally the Netherlands.
The preparation was complete.
The journey had begun.
A Mission with Purpose
The Jerusalem–Amsterdam ultraloop was never just about kilometers. It was about inspiring people with diabetes to embrace movement as a path to empowerment. It was about showcasing that great distances – literal and symbolic – can be conquered through discipline, knowledge, and community support.
This mission fueled every moment of preparation.