The race location is virtually made for triathlon, using the theater ( Schouwburg ) provides the perfect venue for everything inclusive of showers, changing rooms etc.

It is evident from the organisation that the race has been going since 1983 as everything is catered for. The registration process is straight forward, however a bit disappointing is the fact that you don't get a back pack ( like you do at Ironman ) or any goodies at registration. Everything is put into one of your transition bags

The race briefing ( I went to the dutch briefing being a native dutch speaker ) was Tepid at best and left a lot of normally obvious questions unanswered ( such as do you have access to your transition bags on race morning, are there any bike pumps etc ). Also they would only answer two questions during the briefing. They certainly didn't create the same atmosphere and hype as you get at an Ironman event.

The pasta party started late and caused long queues as people outside of the room were effectively queuing for the buffet. The atmosphere was good however and having some of the Pros being introduced added to the experience

The swim was a mass start which brings with it the usual issues and congestion from start until the first turning buoys. It would be much better if they switch to the rolling starts as effectively it is a race against the clock for everyone.

The 2 lap bike course was great, well signposted and marshalled, good quality surface to ride on with a lot of support along the way. Having your name called out by the PA whilst riding to one of the marinas was a nice bonus. It's a flat course with a lot of wind which adds to the difficulty, you don't get any respite or opportunity to freewheel and battling a headwind makes for a challenging second lap

The run course is flat and very well supported, the only real downside is that they don't hand out arm bands per lap and you therefore count your own laps. This takes away from the experience as you dont see what laps the other competitors are on ( this is normally a nice conversation starter )

Post finish the finishers area is great, they insist on showering before the post race massage and there are good facilities to do so. Again this isn't mentioned in the race brief so packing shower gels, towels etc isn't obvious. 

The post race buffet was nice, they also will serve food to your table which is much appreciated after a long day.

All in all a great event and I definitely recommend it