100 miles for Garmisch: Trailrunning celebrates international event!

100 miles for Garmisch: Trailrunning celebrates international event!

Garmisch-Partenkirchen becomes the scene of one of the most exciting running events of the year: the Zugspitz-Ultrail, a 100 mile run, attracts around 5000 athletes from 66 nations. This event has developed into a large tourist magnet for the region since its pilot project in 2011, in which only 700 participants were at the start. The enthusiasm is noticeable and, with a high sporting claim, also brings an enormous economic benefit for the community.

With almost two thirds of the participants who travel with accompanying persons, the region's hotels can look forward to an occupancy rate. It is estimated that visitors will remain an average of 2.3 nights, which means an estimated economic value of 1.5 million euros for Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The organizers of the event offer shuttle buses that bring the participants from various starting sites such as Mittenwald, Grainau or Ehrwald to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

of innovations and challenges

This year there is a premiere: the challenge of a 100 mile route is offered for the first time. Previously, the Ultratrail was already known for its demanding distances, but the expansion to this length brings further challenges. Garmisch-Partenkirchen also attaches great importance to the event as a sporty highlight and relies on trail running events such as the GAPA trail and the Transalpine run. In addition, the event also takes on large social dimensions by mobilizing around 350 helpers to support the participants during the competition.

You can also be proud of logistics: the starting sites offer a wide range of options for the participants and their accompanying persons. Important information about the event is provided via an app that even includes an SMS service for friends and families in order to track the course of the runners live. Continuous tracking allows the current position to be viewed at DATASPORT tracking MAP and also to look back at the course of the race. A little tip: If you use the app, you should think of a power bank because the tracking can strain the smartphone battery.

long -term perspectives

The Zugspitz-Ultratrail is not just a one-time event. In order to maximize long -term economic benefits, it is important that such major events have a lasting effect on the region. According to a study by wifo , sports major events generally generate positive economic effects for the venues through increased media attention, more tourist income and infrastructure investments. Despite the often only temporary effects, a noticeable influence on the region is expected, which could also be important in the coming years.

The organizers of the ultra -trail are optimistic: they want to consider the number of 5000 to be new to keep the charm and character of the event. In a market that changes through high requirements and professional standards, the Zugspitz Ultratrail remains one of the last occasions to successfully combine tradition and modern sport.

With an Expo that is the largest so far and combines 53 exhibitors, the event is also enriched culturally. It remains exciting to see how the Ultratrail will develop in the coming years and what new challenges the region can take.