Does the three-hour mark at the Oldenburg Marathon 2023 fall?

Does the three-hour mark at the Oldenburg Marathon 2023 fall?

The Oldenburg Marathon is expected this year on October 20 and is already raising questions: Is the sound barrier of three hours broken? In recent years, women's victory times have improved continuously, which feeds the hopes for a new record. With a new route that may offer the runners optimal conditions, the dream could come true.

The marathon begins in Hude, while all other disciplines start in Oldenburg on Gartenstraße. The finish is traditionally on the Schlossplatz. But what makes the current situation particularly exciting is the lack of the last winners in the registration list. Last year's winner, Naima Madlen Diesner, is in the race, but has focused on mountain bike races. Marie Hielscher, who won in 2023, also chose the Amsterdam Marathon this year.

route and weather outlook

The new route could be crucial for the competition conditions. "Backwind can be expected," said organizer Dirk Specter. This could challenge the runners during the 42.195 kilometers. This information is important for the athletes, as good time management is already decisive for the half marathon brand. The first 15 kilometers are expected to be completed in the northwest direction before going south in a turn.

The winning times of the past few years speak for themselves: Birgit Schönherr-Hölscher achieved the best time with 3:07:45 in 2016, while in 2018 in a different age group 3:11:12. Naima Madlen Diesner set up a new best time in 2022 with 3:03:17. If this trend continues, the sub-3 time could be within reach.

The field of participants and local favorites

With 6300 registrations, the marathon is fully booked. Among the participants there are also numerous local athletes who may be able to benefit from the absence of the last winners. Dennis Osterfeld, who completed the last four marathons in times between 2:50 and 2:53, has the best chance of securing one of the front places.

The modalities for participation in the marathon are clearly structured. The marathon begins at 9 a.m., followed by the children's runs at 9:30 a.m., the 10-kilometer run at 10 a.m., the half marathon at 11 a.m. and the 5-kilometer run at 1:30 p.m. In view of the multitude of starts and the advertising presence, an exciting event is expected.

Further information is in the article by www.nwzonline.de to be found.