After a warmup session, the marathon started. It was planned that Samuel Oesterle would run the 10 km distance. However, a relay runner from one of the teams was missing in one of the Schwarzwald AG teams. Since the organizers of the event needed somebody to fill the slot, Samuel Oesterle readily volunteered. Thus, ARKU was also part of the relay race.
During a marathon relay, 4 runners divide the distance into 4 separate parts (2x7km and 2x14km). In between a hand over with a baton occurs. Oesterle performed outstanding during this race and reached an impressive final time of 1:07:20 for the 14-kilometer distance. Meanwhile, Daniel Dietrich participated in the 21 km half marathon. After some initial jostling and some overtaking due to the high number of participants, he was finally able to complete the half marathon in a time of 1:40:01. Dietrich finished in 875th place and thus in the top 900 of the approximately 10,000 runners who participated in the marathon.
The enthusiasm of the numerous spectators also motivated ARKU participants Samuel Oesterle and Daniel Dietrich and warmed them up during these icy temperatures. Additionally, the large number of bands along the entire route also contributed to the good atmosphere.
A big thank you goes out to the Schwarzwald AG, who organized the race and provided the runners with the best food before, during and after the race.
ARKU is already looking forward to the next Freiburg Marathon on March 26, 2023.