Runners start · local time — Half 18:00
21.1km around the Altmühlsee dam; flat and scenic
Held every July on the shores of Altmühlsee in Gunzenhausen,
the Heizomat Altmühlseelauf grew out of a relay race first organised in 1986 by local sports club SV Unterwurmbach.
What began as a modest local event with 41 relay teams has continued for almost 40 years and established itself as one of the defining summer running festivals in the Middle Franconia region.
The centrepiece is the 21.1 km half marathon course, which follows the dam around Altmühlsee.
The flat route circles almost the entire lake and has very few bends,
making it popular both with runners chasing a fast time and those who want to enjoy the scenery.
Alongside half marathon, the event includes a Bambinilauf for children (0.4 km), a school race for students (2.0 km),
the Jedermannlauf for recreational runners (7.4 km) and a corporate relay (21.1 km relay), with categories designed to welcome participants of all ages.
Half marathon is also notable as an evening race starting at 6 p.m. (18:00).
Runners take to the lakeside around sunset to avoid the midsummer heat, creating a memorable finish against the lake scenery as they pass through finish.
With its strong local-festival atmosphere, the event has long been known for bringing together families, volunteers and local residents.
