Is the Volkslaufe 10k Race the Right Event for You?
The Volkslaufe 10k race is held annually in Frankenmuth, Michigan in celebration of friends, family, and fitness. In this race report, running coach Art Seiber breaks down what to expect from the race, what might challenge you about the course, and what he likes most about the event.
What is a race report?
At Team RunRun, we know that working towards a race is a great motivation for running. That said, not all running events are created equal. Our athletes report back on their experiences so that you can figure out which race is right for you. Read on for a breakdown of what you can expect from the Volkslaufe 10k in Frankenmuth, Michigan!
Race: Volkslaufe 10k
Runner: Coach Art Steiber
Race Date: 7/03/2021
Location: Frankenmuth, MI
Results: 49:24 – 3rd place in 60-64M
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/5567772528
3 Bests – What aspects of the 2021 Volkslaufe 10k race did you like the most?
- I’ve run this race over 30 times so I like the history. It started in 1976.
- The course has good variety. Starts by a river, runs through corn fields, then through a small town, then over a covered bridge, then finishes in a park by the river.
- Usually there are fans along much of the route cheering the runners although there were far fewer fans this year.
Not so much – What aspects of the Volkslaufe 10k race didn’t work for you?
For some reason they didn’t have mile markers along the course. In the past they marked the kilometers (it’s a German-themed town) but this year they didn’t even have those.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I hit my goal of sub-8:00 minute pace. I was able to keep a very even pace of 7:55-8:00 and averaged 7:57.
What specifics should a runner know about the Volkslaufe 10k race course?
The start is uphill and on grass so it’s a slow start but then you are on flat and rolling country roads.
Aesthetics – Is the Volkslaufe race a pretty course?
I like the Volkslaufe 10k course because of the variety. Runs by fields, a golf course, a river, a covered bridge and neighborhoods.
Difficulty – Is the Volkslaufe 10k race a tough course?
There are a few hills but they are not extreme. Moderately difficult.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
This is a very well-organized race. It’s been put on by volunteers from the Jaycees since 1976 so they know what it takes.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Most years there is a large field of very good runners. This year was a little lighter.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard aid stations pus a few local groups for entertainment. There was an accordion player, a young girls dance group, and a a couple houses with music speakers for the runners.
What was the weather like this year? Was it typical?
This year was the coolest conditions I can remember at this event. It was mid-50s and cloudy, so perfect.
Spectators – Is the Volkslaufe 10k race a friendly course for your friends?
Very spectator friendly. Fans can watch the start then wander the shops in town and sight-see then walk to the finish to see their runner cross the line.
How’s the Swag?
The Volkslaufe race always has a nice shirt and medal for finishers, The winners get a very cool German beer stein. Large for 1st, medium sized for 2nd and a small stein for 3rd.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars. Highly recommend the Volkslaufe 10k race.
Art Steiber is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with Coach Art, check out his coaching page.