History
The rich history of the Kennedy-Mars Sittard
The Kennedy-Mars has a long and impressive history dating back to the early years of the event. What once started as a sporting challenge grew into an established tradition where perseverance, discipline, and togetherness are central.
1908
Theodore Roosevelt decrees that officers must be able to walk 80 kilometers within 20 hours.
1963
President John F. Kennedy asks whether this feat is still achievable in modern times.
1963
Robert Kennedy completes the trek in 17 hours and 50 minutes, sparking a worldwide hype.
1963
The first Kennedy-Mars is walked in Sittard by eleven young people
1964
Decision to organize the Kennedy-Mars annually