At the starting line for the 36th time: The Lousberg Run powered by STAWAG was a resounding success

An Event Celebrating Diversity

The starting gun went off on July 1 for 2,000 runners who took on the challenging course of the legendary Teufelsberg. Over 5,555 meters, the route first climbed a steep ascent, while the second half rewarded participants with a downhill run to the finish line. Starting spots had been sold out weeks in advance, while over 600 people on the waiting list were still hoping for a spot. For the University Sports Center (HSZ), the race is one of the highlights of the summer and has become an indispensable part of the event calendar. “The Lousberg Run stands for diversity: it combines elite and recreational sports,” said Judith Blau, director of the University Sports Center.

The Lousberg Run, powered by STAWAG, stands not only for sports but also for community within Aachen’s university landscape. Thomas Tränapp, Chancellor of RWTH Aachen University, is delighted by the event’s communal spirit: “I’ve run in the race myself about 10 times and think the Lousberg Run is an event that fosters a sense of identity for both Aachen’s universities and the entire city of Aachen.” Another key aspect is the collaboration between FH and RWTH, which consistently stands out in a positive light at major sporting events like this. “Everyone pitches in enthusiastically for the Lousberg Run. The event brings students and staff together across university boundaries.”

The Lousberg Run powered by STAWAG is the sporting highlight of the summer not only for students at Aachen’s universities, but also for running enthusiasts from Aachen and the surrounding area, who are swept up in the special atmosphere. Over the years, the race has grown into one of Aachen’s largest running events and has long since achieved the status of a defining cultural institution.

NRW University Running Cup

Traditionally, the Lousberg Run powered by STAWAG is also the final stage of the four-stage NRW University Running Cup. The Aachen team was able to secure important points today and, together with the Dortmund running team, clinched second place in the overall standings. The newly designed challenge cup from the Foundry Institute was ceremoniously presented to the team from Cologne.

Fun & Sports

But amateur runners also had the chance to give it their all on July 1—some of them even in special costumes. After all, prizes were awarded not only for the fastest times but also for the most creative costumes as part of the popular costume contest. Fun is therefore just as important as athletic performance. This also reflects the core idea that sparked the history of the Lousberg Run: Launched by a student initiative of residents in the Rütscher Straße residential towers, runners took to the starting line for the first time over 36 years ago. Even today, collaboration with the residential towers remains an integral part of the preparations for the Lousberg Run. “The race has certainly continued to evolve since I first helped out in 2006. It’s wonderful to see how a student initiative has grown into a major professional event.”

Many helping hands

However, the students’ involvement doesn’t stop with the residents of the high-rises. Every year, the Lousberg Run powered by STAWAG relies on the many volunteers who help out at fruit and water stations or serve as course marshals. The Sports Office also ensures that everything runs smoothly and that the atmosphere remains safe and respectful. “As the Sports Office, we want to enable students to participate in sports and support recreational sports in Germany. The Lousberg Run is a great opportunity to do just that.”

The HSZ also receives significant support from the Aachen Student Services Organization, which provides catering and infrastructure support. As is tradition, the HSZ will also be at the starting line with its own running team, something Ute von Drahten is particularly looking forward to: “Together with the HSZ, we share the goal of promoting student health. As we do every year, we’re excited to be an active part of the event.”

Once again this year, the HSZ can count on its sponsors, who make the Lousberg Run powered by STAWAG possible. For the second time this year, the SMS Group is on board as a partner. The HSZ maintains a long-standing partnership with STAWAG, which has shown great commitment across many events. As the title sponsor, STAWAG has been supporting the Lousberg Run for more than 20 years now. Kristen Haacke emphasizes: “Today’s event marks the beginning of our long-standing partnership with the University Sports Center. With our own running team, we enjoy the special atmosphere and support the successful runners in the finish area with our water stations.”

Awards Ceremony

After the festive awards ceremonies, everyone was able to relax and wind down the evening with music and cold drinks. Judith Blau is delighted with the success of the event: “Without our strong partners and supporters, we wouldn’t be able to host such a iconic event. We’re already looking forward to next year’s race!”

In the men’s race, Max Nores took first place with a time of 17:04 minutes.

In the women’s race, Therese Schuhenn won with a time of 19:49 minutes.

All other results and information can be found on the event page.