Tyrolean Cyclists Dominate 2025 Ötztal Bike Marathon
Sölden, Austria – Janine Meyer and Jonas Holznecht secured victories at teh 44th Ötztal Bike Marathon held today, marking a strong showing for Tyrolean athletes. Meyer shattered her own course record, completing the grueling race in 7:22:32 hours – four minutes faster than her winning time from the previous year. She finished 17:14 minutes ahead of fellow German, Eva, with local hero Belinda Holzer rounding out the women’s podium in 7:51:37 hours.
“It is amazing, I was alone for so long. The first victory at the Ötztal cycling marathon was certainly the most stunning as my parents were also there. But I would not exchange any of my three triumphs for something else,” Meyer stated after her third Ötztal victory.In the men’s race, Jonas Holznecht took first place.
The Ötztal Bike Marathon, known for its challenging course including the Brenner Pass, Jaufenpass, and Timmelsjoch, also drew a number of prominent athletes. Skibergsteig Vice World Champion Sarah Dreier completed the course in 9:11 hours, while winter sports stars Benjamin Karl (7:57:38 hours) and Manfred Mölgg (7:36 hours) also participated. Karl achieved his goal of finishing under eight hours despite weighing 88 kilograms. Mölgg improved his time by ten minutes, stating, “It was such a great backdrop with incredible spectators. Driving with so many colleagues and friends was again a dream. It was really hard on the Timmelsjoch, I got cramps there. But the time is really great!”
An notable feat was also achieved by 80-year-old Martin Strobl, who finished the race for the 35th time.
The event attracted a peak online audience of 10,200 viewers during its 15-hour live broadcast. The 45th Ötztal Bike Marathon is scheduled for August 30, 2026, with Toni palzer, who co-commentated the live stream, expressing his intention to compete.
