Closing date July issue -> May 19
Mid-May: Friesland welcomes 46th International Tatra Meeting
The connection has existed for years. Frisian Tatra enthusiast Peter Visser and the International Tatra Friends (Tatra Freunde International) have maintained a good relationship for quite some time. During a report we made with Peter last March, it was already mentioned that there were advanced plans to bring the international Tatra event to the Netherlands for 2026. In a few weeks, the time will have come, and a contingent of special classics will visit the Frisian countryside. This will take place during the international meeting, which runs from May 14 to May 17. The event's base is Drachten (Van der Valk), and from there, the meeting will feature a packed program in which Tatras and elements of Frisian culture come together. And the theme was not chosen without reason: between planets and lakes.
Peter thought it would be a great idea to expose the Tatras to the Dutch countryside for the 46th edition of the gathering. Or rather: to bring together their special history with a number of highlights in Friesland. A beautiful and packed program has been put together that is impressive and thoroughly organized. At this moment, Peter Visser—together with Bauke Bos—is putting the finishing touches on everything to ensure the gathering runs smoothly. It is very nice that the largest classic car event in the Northern Netherlands will be one of the places where Tatras from home and abroad might make an appearance. Those traveling to the Netherlands early can participate in the Oldtimer Festival in Hoornsterzwaag, which takes place on May 14.
That is also the day the 46th International Tatra Meeting is officially opened; this takes place in Drachten, specifically at the Van der Valk Hotel. It is the prelude to a busy Friday, as on May 15 the international contingent of Tatra drivers first visits the Planetarium in Franeker. In the afternoon, they drive via Akkrum to the NSU Legends museum in HaskerdijkenSo two beautiful worlds come together there, and however much the Tatra drivers cherish their own special possessions, it is already certain that people will be impressed by Hette Knijpstra's private NSU collection.
The final full day is also dedicated to wonderful program elements. After a short briefing for the drivers, the group departs for Noardburgum, where a visit and tour of a clog maker's workshop and museum are on the program; this takes place very early in the morning. Next, they travel on to Eernewoude for a three-hour boat trip across the Frisian lakes, departing promptly at 11:00 AM. Being on time is therefore important for the participants. Lunch will be served on board during the cruise. Once the group has set foot back ashore, the journey continues to Surhuisterveen, where a guided tour and viewing of a windmill will take place. The participants can then process all the impressions of the days during dinner in Drachten, and a festive evening marks the conclusion of an event that offers everything to look forward to.
The beauty of this event is also that there is a good chance many people will spot the Tatras. At the rest stops, the program locations, and while driving. From May 14 to May 16, the program offers a unique opportunity for this as well. It is a program in which Czech (or Czechoslovakian, if you prefer) heritage and beautiful Frisian culture come together in a fine manner. Peter Visser and the co-organizers deserve a pat on the back in advance.
You can find more information about (participation in) this beautiful event under this link.
I have only ever seen one once in my entire life. And it was standing neatly at a height of about 3 meters on a rack in a high warehouse belonging to a car scrapyard. He was a 'friendly' guy. When I asked: “What kind of car is that?”, he replied: “A Tatra, okay? But that’s not what you’re here for, so what do you want?!” (quote!) A let’s say 'unforgettable explanation'. That image of that black Tatra on *that* rack has never left my mind. Later, just as now, I could read about it. But to see one driving? Never. Too bad!
I wonder how many people in Hoornsterzwaag realize what they are looking at. Most probably think at first: what is *that*?
Tatra remains a distinct brand, technically headstrong and distinctive in terms of design as well. That is precisely why such an international gathering actually fits in quite well here.
You don't see that every day in Friesland either, a row of Tatras.
A beautifully filled event with an eye for Dutch natural beauty, masterful technology from the Czech Republic and Germany; no one needs to be bored, hats off to the organization!
Frisians are stubborn, just like the Tatra.