Maximilian Rath breaks ancient record over 3000 meters in Neustadt

Maximilian Rath breaks ancient record over 3000 meters in Neustadt

The impressive achievements of Maximilian Rath, a 15-year-old talent from Penzberg, not only caused sporting enthusiasm, but also caused the local community to be excited. Rath pulverized a German record over 3000 meters in a last competition of the season in Neustadt/Waldnaab.

a historical record

On August 12, 2024, Rath crossed the finish line after 8: 30.39 minutes and broke the old record of 8: 35.8 minutes that Frank Konzack had set up in Erfurt in 1974. This record had an impressive durability of 50 years, which makes Rath's performance all the more remarkable. "It is cool to achieve the best," said Rath. However, he made it clear that the national championship title is of greater importance for him.

a competition of superlatives

At the 36th runner meeting in Neustadt, Rath had to compete against well-known competition, including U20 athlete Luke Hühn. Despite the initial highest tempo, Rath was able to maintain the pressure up to the finish line. "The second kilometer was run in 2:50 minutes," Rath noted, and he even mastered the final 1000 meters in 2:49 minutes, which corresponds to a speed of 21.3 km/h. Rath took second place among the men who ran together with the youngsters.

The way to the record

Rath had already announced in a competition in Regensburg 8: 39.00 minutes in May that he could fight for the record. But only the end of the season offered him the opportunity to surpass the German M15 record. His trainer, Clemens Bleistein, recognized Rath's potential and encouraged him to master challenges. "I wouldn't have dared to overtake him alone," the young athlete confessed.

a positive feedback for the community

Maximilian Rath is considered a model by trainers and sports enthusiasts, whose story inspires the youth and the community. Many see him a symbol that hard work and determination are ultimately rewarded. The local press and sports clubs have already recognized its success in detail, and in social networks his name is more and more common, which increases interest in athletics in general.

the look into the future

Rath has already caught the eye of exciting goals for the coming season. He strives for participation in the European Youth Olympics Festival (Eyof) in Skopje. He also dreams of a start at the U18 European Championship 2026 in Rieti, Italy. "That would be a very, very big goal," he said optimistically about his sporting career. He currently enjoys a short rest phase during the summer vacation, but is planning to continue to train regularly.

Maximilian Raths breakthrough not only ushered in a new era for him personally, but could also promote a new enthusiasm for running in Penzberg and beyond. This performance will be remembered and exemplified what is possible when talent and training meet.