Running for the finale, Bebendorf ponders daily question: "Can you close your eyes each day?" - recalled from the strife of a gravely ill mother.
In a captivating display of resilience and determination, Karl Bebendorf claimed victory in the 3000 meters steeplechase at the 2025 Team European Championships in Dresden, Germany. Despite the gruelling conditions and a fall during the final stretch, Bebendorf managed to set a new championship record[2].
The race was a gruelling test for Bebendorf, with the last kilometer proving particularly challenging[3]. However, he held his ground, maintaining his lead against German Record Holder Frederik Ruppert. In a thrilling turn of events, Bebendorf briefly lost the lead to Ruppert, but swiftly regained it before the water jump[4].
Despite a hard fall over the water jump, Bebendorf managed to catch himself and sprinted to the finish line, securing his win[5]. His performance was not just a personal triumph but a significant contribution to Germany's team success, earning full points for the country[6].
Off the track, Bebendorf was dealing with personal turmoil. His mother was battling terminal cancer, and he dedicated his win to her[1][4]. This emotional context added a powerful layer to his performance, resonating strongly with the audience and his teammates, making it one of the most moving moments of the event[1][4].
The "MainAthlet" podcast delved into the details of Bebendorf's mindset and preparation, including his training under extreme conditions and his new coach Thomas Dreissigacker, which helped him overcome both physical and emotional challenges during the competition[1].
The gruelling test in the 3000 meters steeplechase extended to football-like challenges, as Karl Bebendorf plays a game of his own against Frederik Ruppert, a German Record Holder. Despite an unexpected fall over the water jump, Bebendorf shows a footballer's resilience, swiftly regaining the lead and securing his win.
