Mon Van den Eynde (1924-1989) was a Track and Field Coach in Middle Distance and Distance Running at Leuven University Track Club and at Daring Club Leuven Atletiek, the organising club.

Van Den Eynde became famous as a coach when his athletes won Olympic medals and broke World Records. Gaston Roelants: Olympic Champion 1964 and World Record holder 3000m Steeplechase, 20000m and One Hour. Emile Puttemans: Olympic Silver medallist 1972 and World Record holder 5000m and 3000m, 5000m indoor. Ivo Van Damme: Double Olympic Silver medallist 1976 in 800m and 1500m. 2nd all-time performance at 800m in 1976. Van Damme died in a car accident in 1976, aged 22. He is remembered in the Memorial Van Damme, the Brussels Diamond League Meeting.

Coached many other international athletes.

Van Den Eynde was a Doctor in Physical Education at Leuven University. He was one of the first coaches to integrate findings of scientific research in his training programs. He also introduced innovative training methods. He inspired many athletes and coaches and is the spiritual father of distance running in Belgium, with its great tradition.

Van Den Eynde was also a fascinating personality , a great philosopher and a collector of African art objects. The “Meeting voor Mon” (since 1989) is a tribute to our very much appreciated and beloved coach.