About

Gerrits Marathon is a documentary about 70-year-old Arnhem resident Gerrit Markink, who tries to break the world record marathon for over-70s. It also follows Toby, a 30-year-old athlete preparing for an Iron Man.

What to expect

The documentary follows Gerrit Markink as he trains for a marathon world record for people over 70.

During filming he is hit by a severe pulmonary embolism, and the film also follows Toby, a 30-year-old athlete preparing for an Iron Man.

  • Training at Natural Fit and athletics club Ciko’66
  • Restores old English cars in his garage
  • Gerrit recovers with ups and downs
  • Toby wants to make Gerrit proud

Dates

FAQ

When can I see Gerrits Marathon?

Screenings are on:

Monday 2 November 2026 at 10:30

Tuesday 3 November 2026 at 15:30

How do I book tickets?

Book via the ticket links:

2 November: focusarnhem.nl

3 November: focusarnhem.nl

What is the documentary about?

Gerrits Marathon follows Gerrit Markink, a 70-year-old Arnhem resident who tries to break the world record marathon for over-70s.

During filming he is hit by a severe pulmonary embolism and ends up in hospital in life-threatening condition.

His dream of the record feels further away than ever.

He recovers with ups and downs and keeps his love for running.

The film is not only about winning; it is about pleasure, attention and the process itself.

Who is Toby?

Toby is a 30-year-old athlete preparing for an Iron Man. He sees Gerrit as a father figure and wants to make him proud with his performance.

What does Gerrit teach Toby?

Gerrit tries to teach Toby that pleasure in training is more important than the finish line. In a society with growing performance pressure and burn-out among young people, Gerrit is an alternative role model.

Getting there

Focus Filmtheater, Audrey Hepburnplein 1, 6811 EH Arnhem, Gelderland, NL

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