The contract extension underscores the successful collaboration between the two partners over the past three years. The goal remains to continue steadily improving the event and to keep offering participants and visitors a high-quality and engaging running experience. The lessons learned from previous years are being specifically incorporated into the further development of the organization, the course route, and the supporting program.

“The Gutenberg Half Marathon Mainz stands for athletic enthusiasm, community, and a special atmosphere in downtown Mainz. It is also a sporting highlight with nationwide appeal that inspires many thousands of participants and numerous spectators along the course every year. The team led by organizer Jo Schindler has gradually raised the athletic standard to a new—and nationally very impressive—level by assembling the elite field. In terms of finish times, Mainz is now among the fastest races in German half-marathons,” says Daniel Köbler, Head of the Department of Finance, Public Participation, and Sports, highlighting the event’s value and tangible progress over the past three years.  

The results include a growing field of participants; outstanding times among the top runners by national standards; high public acceptance; and seamless organization of the entire event, including the continued involvement of numerous schools in the Ekiden relay: “With this contract extension, the Gutenberg Mainz Half Marathon will remain an integral part of the city’s athletic and social life and a magnet for running enthusiasts,” Köbler concluded.

Jo Schindler, Managing Director of the sports agency motion events GmbH: “The motion events team is very pleased and proud that the state capital of Mainz is continuing this partnership and that we will continue to organize the Gutenberg Mainz Half Marathon. Our goal is to make the event better every year. It should be a great experience for all runners, regardless of their skill level, and equally so for the spectators. Thank you very much for your trust.”