Alb Extrem: Cycling marathon starts with new organization and large participation!

Alb Extrem: Cycling marathon starts with new organization and large participation!

The Alb Extrem cycling marathon in Ottenbach, which will enter its 41st edition next Sunday, has established itself as an integral part of the cycling landscape. Organized by a new team of ten, the event is not seen as a race, but as a community event that appeals to both amateur and hobby cyclists. Ines Schröder, 39 years old and a passionate racing cyclist since she was nine, is one of the organizers and is responsible for press work and maintaining the information email address info@albextrem.de. She has been active as a helper since 2010 and is pleased to now be part of the organizational team.

3,500 participants registered for the event and interest was so great that places were fully booked within 24 hours. This year, the Alb Extrem offers numerous route options, including 95, 165, 205 and 260 kilometers, to suit the different abilities and preferences of riders. To ensure the entire route of 310 km, the necessary signage will be installed on Saturday.

Commitment of the helpers and local community

Over 350 volunteers are on hand to make the day of the event run smoothly. This also includes local schools and clubs that provide active support. For example, an eighth grade class from Eislingen filled the starter bags. Unlike previous years, this year a decentralized catering system will be provided to provide cyclists with the best possible care. A total of 3,500 pretzels, 1,000 boxes of drinks and 12,000 bars will be provided.

The finish line for participants is 7 p.m., which requires an average speed of 27 km/h to complete the route on time. In order to provide cyclists with additional motivation, spectators are encouraged to visit the refreshment station on the Leicht company premises in Waldstetten shortly after 6 a.m. This fits harmoniously into the festive setting, which also includes a bike expo and talk sessions around the festival tent in Ottenbach.

Review of the previous edition

The “Alb Extrem” cycling marathon took place in 2023 under almost perfect weather conditions. In temperatures of up to 30 degrees and bright sunshine, 3,162 cycling enthusiasts from 30 nations took part, including participants from neighboring countries. The first cyclist, Gijs Koudijs from the Netherlands, completed the route after 16 hours and 4 minutes and received a gold medal. The participants were supported by around 300 volunteers who provided refreshments and technical support at five refreshment points so that the athletes were optimally looked after.

Ines Schröder is also hoping for sunny weather with temperatures around 25 degrees for the 41st edition and is confident that the event will be a complete success. With a community feeling and the support of the local population, it shows that the Alb Extrem is not just a sporting competition, but a living tradition that brings many people together.