Runners in action at the International Hochfelln-Mountainrace in Bergen (© Organisers)
Every year the International Hochfelln-Mountainrace in the Bergen/Chiemgau region of Germany brings together a strong group of mountain-running talent, and this year is no exception with WMRA World Cup points on the line.
Sunday’s race will be the 44th edition of the Hochfellnberglauf and Italian duo Francesco Puppi and Antonio Toninelli are expected to challenge for podium positions. Toni Palzer and Jonas Lehmann, both with top results in 2016 and 2017, are looking to get into the top 10 or maybe the top five and are sure to feature.
Andrea Mayr is always tough to beat in the women’s race, but the Austrian has contested just a handful of races in this year’s World Cup series, so it will be difficult for her to retain her World Cup title.
Bergen will of course attract some of Germany’s best mountain runners, including Michelle Maier. With top international results in 2016 and 2017, Maier is considered a co-favourite along with Mayr.
Former winner and race record-holder Jonathan Wyatt will be back again to race as well as support the event in his new role as President of the World Mountain Running Association. His wife Antonella Confortola, another former winner and Olympic cross country skier, will also be back in Bergen.
The race always includes former and current world or European champions and is a great chance for every runner to join one of the most iconic and scenic mountain courses. Held at the foot of the Bavarian alps with superb views over the surrounding mountains and countryside, it is also an accessible mountain race for all.
Tomo Sarf (WMRA) for the IAAF
