30 years of LAC Molln National Park: Sport connects people and nature

30 years of LAC Molln National Park: Sport connects people and nature

The LAC National Park Molln, a club that combines the passion for running with the beauty of nature, is celebrating its impressive 30th anniversary in 2024. It all started in 1994 when the “running legend” Hans Blaas and his colleagues had the idea of ​​creating a platform for runners in Molln. Their focus was on a healthy and active lifestyle, which finds a special place in the name of the club.

Hans Blaas was a pioneer in running and his commitment not only founded the club, but also promoted the importance of an active lifestyle among the population. Under his leadership, the first steps were taken by the association, which proudly bears the symbol of the national park as part of its identity. Blaas himself was awarded the Upper Austrian Athletics Association's Golden Badge of Honor in 2024, which underlines his significant contributions to the sports community.

The roots of the club

The history of the LAC goes back a long way. A key figure in athletics in Upper Austria was Franz Lechner, who won numerous championship titles in the 1950s and inspired many young people to take up the sport, including Willibald Girkinger. As club chairman from 1994 to 2014, Girkinger formed the LAC and brought it recognition. Since then, Andreas Maier has continued to run the association, which still promotes active public life in Molln and beyond.

The LAC has much more in mind than just the sporting competition. Whether primary school, amateur runner or athlete – the goal is to appeal to all generations and performance levels. For example, the children's group “LACky” is led by trained supervisors who make sport accessible to the youngest in a playful way. The three-day “Olympics for Kids” summer camp also inspires numerous young athletes.

Successes and challenges

The anniversary year 2024 is peppered with remarkable successes. Christoph Stadler not only secured the title of Austrian U23 champion in the half marathon, but also a bronze medal in the U23 championships over 10 kilometers. These successes show the high level and commitment that the club's members put into their sport. Other LAC athletes have also achieved medals and titles at various events throughout Austria, which impressively underlines the club's vibrant community.

The LAC National Park Molln also takes part in competitions such as the Traunviertel Running Cup and the Neuhofen Cross Running Cup, where it has already achieved many second and third places. The training, which takes place under the direction of experienced trainers such as Gerhard Strutzenberger, offers members the opportunity to improve their skills and do sports together. Once a year, the traditional local run at the Mollner Market Festival motivates running and walking enthusiasts of all ages to take part.

Support from the region is crucial for the club. Public institutions and local companies make their contribution, be it through sponsorship or by providing space. This is particularly important as the LAC does not have its own sporting infrastructure.

In summary, the history and future of the LAC National Park Molln shows that the club is more than just a sports club - it is an important part of the community, the environment and the athletics family in the country. With a clear message for the 30th anniversary: ​​“Keep on running!” The club is ready to continue to ensure sport and exercise in Molln in the future, whether on the train, the road or the hiking trails in the region. Anyone who is interested is always welcome to join the team and enrich their lifestyle through exercise. Further insights into the club's events and lifestyle can be found in a detailed report on www.meinkreis.at.