Two competitions are once again on the program for the stair run. The short distance run starts at 11 a.m. and covers around 5.4 kilometers with 450 steps and 246 meters of altitude. The main race starts at 12 noon and covers around 8.4 kilometers with 635 steps and 468 meters of altitude. The start and finish is at the Oberstein market square. The starting signal for each race will be given by the patron, Lord Mayor Frank Frühauf. The new German Gemstone Queen, who was crowned two days earlier, is expected to attend the award ceremony accompanied by some of her predecessors. Another former queen, Anja Hahn, will be on the course as a security guard. As always, the event will be hosted by athletics expert Heinz Hofmann.
Currently (as of 29 August 2024), the starting field comprises 61 participants, "but many more runners will certainly register by the registration deadline," says organizer Rainer Hagner, who knows from previous years' experience. He assumes that there will once again be around 90 participants. It will be interesting to see whether last year's winner of the main race, Steffen Uebel, can repeat his triumph. If he does, he should take home the challenge cup for good.
In addition to a certificate, each participant will also receive a commemorative medal donated by Heike Fuchs, Fuchs Gravuren GmbH, as well as a cloth bag provided by City Mood with goodies from Schwollener Sprudel, Navello and Felsen-Apotheke, among others. They will also take part in a raffle with valuable prizes from regional companies. The fastest runners in each age group will also receive prizes sponsored by regional companies. In addition to the marshals, ASB and THW will also ensure safety along the route.
To prepare for the stair run, the Hagner marathon team offers regular running meetings, which are also well received. "We had 35 participants at the last running meeting, including a noticeable number of younger athletes from the region," says Rainer Hagner, pleased with the popularity. They were also enthusiastic about the route and the good condition of the running track. The running sessions take place every Tuesday at 6.30 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m., with the meeting point at the Oberstein market square.
- Registrations for the Felsenkirche stair run are possible until Sunday, September 8, 2024, at https://my.raceresult.com/275259/, the entry fee is 10 euros per run. Late registrations are not possible. Further information can be found at www.marathonteam-hagner.de.