Chaotic Water Gun Race in Neukirchen: Judge Leads Amidst Firing of Water Guns
Fresh Perspective: Judith Gottwald Snags Second Victory at Enni Running Series Despite Health Challenges
Drenched in sweat and clearly exhausted, Judith Gottwald, a 40-year-old LG Alpene runner, dropped to her knees upon crossing the finish line at the Julius-Stursberg-Gymnasium in Neukirchen-Vluyn. Her victory in the 10-kilometer race at the 23rd Donkenlauf was a testament to her grit. "The humidity and a fierce wind took a toll on me, but fortunately, the clouds cleared out, preventing a heatstroke before the race," Judith said, visibly relieved.
Judith's Surmountable Challenges
Her recent triumphs - win at Moers and a sixth-place finish in Sonsbeck - came after a series of injuries. "I suffered a slight disc herniation, followed by a stress fracture in my heel that required five weeks in a wheelchair," Judith shared, moments after her victory. Despite these setbacks, her determination remains undeterred.
Looking ahead, she's eager to compete at the upcoming Wednesday evening Alpener City-Lauf and aim for a series win at the Enni running series finale in Xanten on September 12. Her goal list also includes the German championship for justice employees.
Meanwhile, Malte Beke, the 29-year-old winner of the men's division, missed the 35-minute mark by 19 seconds. Despite the challenging conditions, he expressed contentment, "The spectators' sprinklers and kids with water guns along the course were a cool surprise."
Donkenlauf's Sprinkler Surprise
Despite the ominous clouds hovering over Neukirchen-Vluyn, there was only a light drizzle from the sky. The generous sprinklers activated by spectators and child-sized water guns provided much-needed relief for the runners. The participants' attitudes embodied resilience and camaraderie.
The Donkenlauf Story
Altogether, 1383 runners participated, along with around 240 children. Daniel Buschatz, a participant accompanied by his handicapped son in a stroller, completed the 5-kilometer run in 28:15 minutes. The sturdy crew of 130 helpers in neon-orange t-shirts managed the runs and walking rounds flawlessly, with a intriguing cake buffet at the finish line impressing the winners.
Kai Ruthmann, the organizer, embodied smooth charm at the microphone and during the award ceremonies, acknowledging that, while the turnout was impressive, a few more spectators may have enlivened the atmosphere, despite the tropical weather that seemed to have deterred some older visitors.
Judith Gottwald plans to participate in the upcoming Wednesday evening Alpener City-Lauf and the Enni running series finale in Xanten on September 12, hoping to win the series. (sports)
The generous sprinklers activated by spectators and child-sized water guns provided much-needed relief for the runners at the Donkenlauf, embodying resilience and camaraderie among the participants. (sports)
![Thomas Müller, sans icy plunge, begins World Cup journey. [Picture of Thomas Müller included.]](/en/img/20250616101439_pexels-image-search-image-description-headline.jpeg?width=1280&crop=4-3&quality=75)
