The most beautiful marathon in the world has to be the Jungfrau Marathon and today was an ideal day to run it.
"42.195 km, 1953 meters of elevation and 4000 starting places, which are sold out every year. These are the numbers that make the Jungfrau Marathon special. But it's not just these numbers, but also the beautiful surroundings that can be admired along the entire route - as a spectator and runner - that make hearts beat faster. Pure nature!
At the start in Interlaken, you can already see the finish line. The view of the Jungfrau, which is part of the famous trio of the Alps "Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau", sets the direction. The Jungfrau Marathon leads through many changing scenarios - along the beautiful Lake Brienz, through traditional mountain villages and finally past a fantastic mountain backdrop. The unique atmosphere, which is supported along the entire route by flag wavers, alphorn players and trychlers, makes this run a fascinating whole. The runners are welcomed at the finish on the Eiger Glacier at 2,320 m above sea level, at the foot of the Eiger North Face."
The race starts at 8:30.
If you can't run any more, the sweeper will sweep you off to the side.
Traditions are followed such as the flag throwers and the alpen horns being part of the opening ceremony.
Picture taking before the race.
Getting the runners pumped up before the race.
Swiss National Anthem played at three minutes before the race. Well, it's tradition.
And they are off!!!!
Off around the Höhematte.
The runners come by the start line for a second time and then they head toward Bönigen by Lake Brienz.
The announcer told the runners to keep their own pace.
The pace bike sets the speed at which participants arrive at the checkpoints in Wengen and Wixi on time. If participants are overtaken by the pace bike, they will not reach the next checkpoint on time and will have to continue at their own risk.
Pace bikes
The broom bike marks the end of the race. Participants who are overtaken by the broom bike can be taken out of the race at the next checkpoint. After the broom bike has passed, the course is opened to traffic. Doctors deployed on the course are authorized to take participants out of the race for medical reasons.
Participants who exceed the closing times in Wengen or at Wixi are not allowed to continue the race, will not be classified and will no longer be able to use marathon services (food, medical care, course marshals, timekeeping, rankings, medals, finisher T-shirts, etc.). The marathon course will be closed after the following closing times -the time is decisive, not the pace bike:
Wengen train station (km 30.7), after 4 hours 25 minutes running time.
The route closes at km 30.7 at 1:00 p.m. local time.
Wengernalp, Wixi junction (km 38.5), after 5 hours 50 minutes of running time.
The route will be closed at km 38.5 at 2.25 p.m. local time.
The last runner coming around.
Cleanup starts right after the last runner passes by.
Everyone has a specific job. They are fast and efficient!
Michael and I had dinner at our friend Käthi's house. While walking over to her house I had to stop and listen to the band from Thun that was playing in front of the youth hostel. In years past, different bands would play at the Höhematte to welcome back the marathon runners. Music, the arts, traditions, etc. are very important here in Switzerland. Even small towns and villages have a community band.
I recognize so many people from years past including the band leader. She still has lots of spunk and energy.
Michael and I always love being in Käthi's company. It's special to be welcomed to her home for a meal. She is such a gracious hostess. Since it was a beautiful evening, we had dinner on her porch so we could enjoy the cool breeze and the view. Thanks Käthi for a delicious meal and a wonderful evening!!!
There are so many pine cones on this tree! Did you know pine cones have been a symbol of human enlightenment, resurrection, eternal life, abundance, and regeneration? Pine cones symbolize rebirth and can be found on terraces, roofs, and balconies of buildings, and they are also traditionally left at the foot of the bed of newlyweds to bring them luck and fertility.
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