Oudenaarde – Oudenaarde celebrated the COS Rope Skippers’ remarkable achievement at the World Championships in Japan, securing 1 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze medals, along with setting a new Double Dutch world record, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, the team’s accomplishments have brought significant pride to the city, with the ceremonies highlighting the athletes’ dedication and teamwork. The quartet also achieved a world record in the Double Dutch Speed Relay, completing 461 jumps in four 30-second intervals.
Chairman Shana De Jaeger emphasized that these results reflect the athletes’ hard work and commitment. “Our city is extremely proud of these brilliant performances, and that’s why we wanted to honour the athletes appropriately,” a city spokesperson stated.
Celebrations in Oudenaarde
The city organized a parade to honor the athletes, who rode through Oudenaarde in an open car, cheered on by hundreds of residents waving flags. Local businesses joined in the festivities, decorating their windows for the celebration. The event was a collaborative effort between the Oudenaarde Winkelstad vzw and the city.
Following the parade, the COS Rope Skippers demonstrated their skills in Market Square and offered an initiation session to attendees. The athletes were also formally recognized in the chapel of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwhospitaal.
Chairman Shana De Jaeger noted that the tribute extended to everyone who participated in the World Championships. “We were a team of 43, and we had a very successful run. This is not the first time we have done well. Our athletes train for many hours, and now they are rewarded,” she remarked.
“The skippers had to pay for their own travel and participation in Japan. There were some contributions from the city and the club, but most of it came from initiatives they organised themselves. No, you shouldn’t compete to get rich,”
De Jaeger concluded. Founded in 1994 by Anne Van Cauwenberghe as the Recrean Skippers in Oudenaarde, COS Rope Skippers vzw has become one of Belgium’s largest rope skipping clubs, currently boasting around 300 members across Oudenaarde, Kruisem, Ronse, and Maarkedal. In 2024, the club will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a special performance.
