An unforgettable cross-country skiing weekend in Goms

Historic performance by Marianne Volken
Marianne Volken's performance was particularly impressive: she is the first woman from the Upper Valais to complete all three races of the Gommerlauf - an outstanding achievement that five other men achieved this year. One of them was Michael Walpen from Reckingen, who was honored at the SC Obergoms awards ceremony for his 50th completed race at the Gommerlauf.

High tension right up to the finish line
The International Gommer Ski Marathon once again offered thrilling races this year. Cyril Fähndrich won the men's race with an impressive time of 1:36.49.7, just ahead of the Frenchman Mattéo Correia (1:36.49.8) and the Swiss Antonin Savary 1:36.50.0.
Bianca Buholzer triumphed in the women's race with a time of 1:41.54.0, closely followed by Susi Meinen from Boltigen in second place (1:41.55.6), while local Rahel Imoberdorf took third place with a strong performance and a time of 1:43.44.5. What is particularly remarkable is that she was celebrating her 20th participation in the Gommerlauf. Flurina Volken also impressed with an excellent 4th place, while Yannik Kreuzer also achieved a top placing with 7th place.

On Saturday, February 22, a total of 250 runners took part in the Gommer Classic, 21 km. As well as 626 runners for the Gommerlauf, 21 km free technique. 30 runners took part in the taster run

On Sunday, February 23, a total of 620 runners took part in the International Gommer Ski Marathon, 42 km, free technique, 19 more than last year. At the Mini-Gommer, 108 children and young people took part in the U10, U12, U14 and U16 categories. The age range at the Gommerlauf extended from 6 to 82 years, which makes the organizers very happy for a fun run.

Get a taste of competition
New this year was the Gommer taster run - a beginner's run for all those who want to gain their first competitive experience of cross-country skiing. This 6 km free technique run took place on Saturday and offered all interested newcomers the opportunity to venture into the world of cross-country skiing. There was no competitive pressure: a mass start ensured a relaxed atmosphere and the course ran through the stadium three times, so that participants could be cheered on by the crowd. This new offer provided the ideal opportunity to enter the world of cross-country skiing. In the first edition, 30 runners took part.

A weekend full of highlights
In addition to the main competitions, the supporting program provided the best entertainment. Around 3,500 spectators were able to follow the races not only on site, but also via live broadcasts on Kanal 9 and Swiss Sport TV. The "moving grandstand" - a special train operated by the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway - enabled the public to follow the athletes along the course. The Gommer Village also invited visitors to linger with a variety of offers and was very popular.
Thanks to all those involved

The success of the 53rd International Gommerlauf would not have been possible without the generous support of transportation partner MGBahn, Swiss Volunteers and numerous other partners. Special thanks go to the 150 or so volunteers whose tireless efforts make this event possible in the first place.

All rankings and further information on the International Gommerlauf can be found at: www.gommerlauf.ch

Special Olympics
The Special Olympics cross-country skiing competitions for people with special needs take place one week after the International Gommerlauf. On Sunday, 2 March 2025, athletes from all over Switzerland will compete against each other over distances of 500 meters, one, three and six kilometers at the Goms Nordic Centre. A visit to watch and cheer on is definitely worthwhile.

Media contact: Samuel Hofmann
Samuel Hofmann, T. +41 78 755 62 98
samuel.hofmann@goms.ch