Ötztal Cycle Marathon 2020: "I have a dream" is the motto of the Ötztal Cycle Marathon. But this dream will have to wait a year. Due to the announcement by the Austrian federal government that no major events will be allowed until the end of August, the Ötztal Cycle Marathon will not take place this year. The organizers have defined August 29, 2021 as the alternative date. All participants who already have a starting place can fulfill their dream at the anniversary next year.
The cancellation of this year's Ötztal Cycle Marathon was not an easy decision for the organizational team. Until the very end, those responsible hoped that the event would be carried out.
"After the announcement that no major events can take place in Austria until the end of August, we had to act now. We are aware that the current political statements relate to cultural events. But if such measures are already being taken in this area, it would not be fair in terms of the safety of our participants to hold a sporting event of this size.” – Oliver Schwarz, Director of Ötztal Tourismus
After intensive consultation, the OK team decided to hold the 40th edition of the Ötztal Cycle Marathon on Sunday, August 29, 2021. A postponement to a later date in autumn 2020 was not an option. The clear days from September are too short to justify a race duration of up to 13,5 hours. In addition, the current lack of planning security means that this far-reaching decision must be made now. Every year amateur athletes from more than 40 nations fulfill their dream over four passes with 238 km and 5.500 meters in altitude.
Ötztal Cycle Marathon 2020 – guaranteed starting place for 2021
All those who have secured one of the coveted starting places for this year's edition can take it with them into next year. The transmission takes place automatically with information to the participants. Of course there is also the possibility of a refund.
“We placed our anniversary event under the sign of the golden eagle, which stands for vision, courage and strength. We wish all fans of the Ötztaler Cycle Marathon these qualities and look forward to a great anniversary next year” – Dominic Kuen, head of the organization team