Race: Zugspitz Ultra 111K
Runner: Graham Thornton
Race Date: 06/16/2023
Location: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Results: 23:35:32
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/9284853053
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The best little tour of bits of the Alps – dipping into Austria for a bit, some very runnable trails and some pretty wild climbing. Just felt like a treat being in two countries for the race. I also loved the setup of the course… good flat to get started, 4 main climbs, all getting progressively more challenging. But a relatively flat 15 miles after the first climb to reset the body.
- Weather is pretty much perfect this time of year. Cool at night, not too hot during the day. Loved it.
- Loved the 10PM start in theory, but flying over from the US was tough.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Not a single toilet on the entire 111K course. Outside of trees, of course. And this was a race when I really could’ve used a real toilet.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I have friends who live in this Bavarian village, so I’ve been coming here for almost ten years. Super rad to start and finish in this little town with your best friends from across the country waiting up for you.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Pretty well supported throughout. But that last climb is a real one.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
This was a tough one with time zones from the US coupled with a 10PM Friday start.. just when you get over the jet lag, you stay up all day and start a race before Midnight.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Some pretty technical downhill spots and some real climbing throughout.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Gorgeous course. You’re running in and around Germany and Austrian Alps.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Yes. Definitely lots of climbing and some technical downhill sections. Great runnable sections in plenty of spots and a nice 15 miles of relatively flat between big climbs 3 and 4.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
- Well oiled machine. They keep adding distances, so were put to 5 races this year. Seems to be
- Germany’s largest trail race with ~4,000 runners.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Eh, not particularly strong. A few folks that absolutely flew but not a pro field.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
No special handshakes – super easy, and can pay an extra $25 for a Flex pass – and decide which race distance you want to run up to the day before the race.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Every 6-10 miles on the course.
Weather and typical race conditions
50s and perfect. Was warm during the day but 30s at night. Perfect conditions.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Just a typical long list of required gear.. nothing you wouldn’t have already.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Very friendly – couple great spots to take a gondola up to watch and cheer. First half of the course is largely in the dark so not as spectator friendly.
How’s the Swag?
Eh. Good enough.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
8 out of 10 stars?