GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
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GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
The GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf is an annual cross-country running event in the Thüringer Wald that takes place each year in mid May. The races follow sections of the Rennsteig, a historic ridge trail that runs 168.3 km between Werra and Saale through the Thüringer Wald, Thüringer Schiefergebirge and Frankenwald.
The event offers multiple competitive and popular-sport formats and records large participant numbers. Recent registration figures for the 54th edition show a total of 11,001 entries across categories. The organizer also reports that about 15,000 runners gather around mid May in normal years.
Race formats include:
- 73.9 km Supermarathon starting in Eisenach
- 42.2 km Marathon with significant elevation gain
- Half marathon
- 21 km Nordic Walking
- 17 km Wanderung (hike)
- Junior Cross events
The finish is in Schmiedefeld, a village with under 2,000 inhabitants where a temporary container and tent village is set up; only the showers are in a permanent building. Catering follows regional traditions: pre-race meals feature Thüringer Klöße, on-course feeds include broth and meat breads, the so-called Haferschleim is served as an endurance food, and Köstritzer Schwarzbier is provided in the finish area. No prize money is paid for victories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
