Triathlon duo from Weyhe masters the challenge of the Ötztal cycling marathon

Triathlon duo from Weyhe masters the challenge of the Ötztal cycling marathon

In the picturesque Sölden, one of the most famous ski locations in Austria, two Hessian triathletes, Sascha Bettker and Mike Reimers, ventured to a special sporting challenge of a special kind: the Ötztal cycling marathon. With its 227 kilometers and impressive 5,500 meters of altitude, this race presents the participants with huge physical and mental challenges. Last Sunday, September 6, 2024, the two athletes started at 6:30 a.m. to go on the demanding routes of the cycling marathon.

This competition is much more than just an ordinary bike race. Bettker, 53 years old, and Reimers, 52 years old, are experienced triathletes and have already completed several Ironman competitions. Her decision to take part in this special competition was made after they were lucky when the starting places were raffled. Of a total of 22,000 applications, only 4,000 participants were selected. It was a unique opportunity for both athletes to test their limits.

The challenges and highs of the race

From the beginning, the route shaped the athletes' thoughts. "It is already a number here," said Reimers, while Bettker emphasized the mental dimension of the race: "That was the greatest drag for me." There were steep climbs and rapid descents on the course. The first major challenge came with the climb to Kühtai, which is at 2,020 meters. While Bettker shone on the descents with a pace of up to 103.4 km/h, Reimers showed his strengths as a climber by overtaking his teammate.

The two triathletes mastered a steep passages and enjoyed the breathtaking natural scenes of the Alps in between. "This is really a dream," said Reimers, while Bettker noticed that because of the rugged slopes on the route, you always had to be attentive. The view of the surroundings was often the only ray of hope during physical exhaustion.

One of the most difficult moments was the last climb to the Timmelsjoch, which at 2,509 meters is the highest point of the race. Here they found old finisher shirts that served as motivation. While Reimers came through well despite a few weak moments, bedker tormented with cramps and the enormous height. However, these mental and physical hurdles were alleviated by an emotional message from his grandchildren, who cheered him up: "Perning, grandpa! You can do it!"

an unforgettable competition

Both athletes had not perfectly prepared for the extreme altitude. "You can't simulate the height air at all," said Reimers, who had only trained in the Harz once. Bettker, who had not before trained at all, became particularly clear. "We had everything from eight to 30 degrees," he said, referring to the demanding conditions that went to the limits of what was feasible.

After many hours of the "Schenchenerei" in the Alps, which could be summarized for bedk under the term "body carnival", both athletes finally triumphed. Bettker ended the race after 12 hours and 41 minutes, while Reimers came to the finish after 11 hours and 34 minutes. Her families were already waiting to celebrate success. This was not only a sporty victory, but also an important experience that the two triathletes could share with their loved ones.

Whether Sascha Bettker will take part again remains to be seen. Enthusiasm and pain are often close together, as he recognizes himself: "When the pain is gone, I have to think about it." Reimers, on the other hand, are certain that the Ötztal cycling marathon could not have been its last challenge yet. "In the meantime, I think: I have to go there again, that can be better," he said with a smile.