I've been designing the Nieuwjaarsrun identity since its very first edition, when Rhythm 'n' Run Marathon Club approached me to create something special for their New Year's running event. What started as a simple poster design has evolved into one of my favorite annual creative challenges. The crown motif became our signature element early on, playing off the event's timing during Epiphany weekend. Leading the creative direction over the years, I've encouraged the team to embrace this unique timing as part of the event's identity, rather than seeing it as just another running event.

While the design has evolved quite a bit since that first poster, I've maintained three core elements that make the Nieuwjaarsrun instantly recognizable: an architecturally stacked logo that demands attention, an intentionally DIY aesthetic that gives it that grassroots community feel, and a cool color palette that captures the crisp January atmosphere. It's been fascinating to watch how these design choices have helped shape the event's personality and create a stronger connection with participants year after year.