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The guided 44-kilometer run recorded 15 participants for the first time.
On Sunday, December 14, 2025 DA44 took place for the sixth time – a long-distance run around Darmstadt initiated Marcus Ortland 15 participants, a record number was achieved for the first time. Two women and 13 men took part, including both experienced runners from previous years and several first-time participants . One participant learned about the run through an article in the Erzhäuser Anzeiger and spontaneously decided to take part.
The DA44 is explicitly not a competition , but rather a guided group run 44-kilometer course loops around Darmstadt and consists of gravel forest paths , paved sections , and a short trail section . The first 28 kilometers are mostly flat, while the second 16 kilometers are significantly hillier. The total elevation gain is approximately 318 meters . The average pace was around 5:30 minutes per kilometer .
Catering and flexible participation
Participants are generally responsible for their own food and drinks. However, a fixed refreshment station kilometer 28 , tea, energy bars, fruit, and pretzels vehicle before the start .
As in previous years, in 2025 it was also possible only part of the route . Some participants finished the run at the refreshment station and were then driven back to the starting point.
Wooden medal and outlook for 2026
New this year was a wooden medal for all runners who completed 44-kilometer distance Marcus Ortland expressed his delight at the positive development of the event and its growing popularity. New runners are always welcome.
The next DA44 is already scheduled: On Sunday, December 13, 2026 , the race is to take place for the seventh time – again in the less comfortable time of year and under the motto “Together is less lonely” .
Further information about the DA44 be found in the Facebook group “DA44” and on the website of the triathlon department of SG Arheilgen
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM/SGA)
Featured image: Everyone who completed the DA44 hike. Photo: SGA
