The party continued at the 50th anniversary of the Berlin New Year's Run
The year ended on a sporty note for SCC EVENTS with the Berlin New Year's Eve Run, and it began in the same way less than 24 hours later: at 12 noon, the starting signal was given for the Berlin New Year's Run at the Brandenburg Gate, marking the start of the 2023 sporting year. Due to the pandemic, the Berlin New Year's Run had to take a break for the past two years – today, 3,879 participants celebrated the 50th anniversary of this classic run.
Looking forward to the route of the 50th Berlin New Year's Run in 2023 ©SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Special running moments at the Brandenburg Gate
At the start, Horst Milde, founder of the BERLIN MARATHON, recalled a very special moment in the history of the event: on 1 January 1990, the race started for the first time as a unified Berlin New Year's Run through the eastern and western parts of the city, attracting worldwide attention. ‘The Wall was still standing at the Brandenburg Gate, so the participants could only run through two openings,’ said Milde, describing one of the special features. The special feature this year was the weather conditions. Never in the history of the Berlin New Year's Run has it been as warm as it was today.
Running on the streets of the capital
On New Year's Day 2023, the leisurely 4 km route led from the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin Cathedral and back again. Participants were able to relax and listen to their fellow runners' party stories along the way – without worrying about the time, as it is not traditionally measured at the Berlin New Year's Run. The focus is on having fun together while exercising. And anyone who found it difficult to get up early that morning was rewarded with lots of happy feelings, donuts and an anniversary certificate at the finish line.
Crossing the castle bridge during the New Year's Run 2023 ©SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Donations to the Berlin New Year's Run for the Björn Schulz Foundation
As in the past, there was no participation fee; instead, the organisers asked for donations to the Björn Schulz Foundation. This foundation supports families with children, adolescents and young adults who have cancer or chronic illnesses, as well as those who are seriously or terminally ill. For ambassador Falk-Willy Wild, his commitment to the foundation has been a matter close to his heart for many years. Before the actor gave the starting signal, he thanked all participants for their support.
Celebrities, ambassadors and athletes on the running track on New Year's Day
Of course, he didn't miss the opportunity to take part in the race himself – as did another prominent participant: cycling legend and multiple Tour de France participant Jens Voigt ran the course together with Jürgen Lock, Managing Director of SCC EVENTS. Voigt is also an ambassador for GENERALI VeloCity Berlin, which is also organised by SCC EVENTS. Politician and President of the Berlin Disabled and Rehabilitation Sports Association Özcan Mutlu from Bündnis 90/Die Grünen was also there again this year.
GENERALI VeloCity Berlin Ambassador Jens Voigt and SCC EVENTS Managing Director Jürgen Lock ©SCC EVENTS/Robert Fekl
