Slow Switch to Running

stats of the week: run 36km, cycled 220km, gym 2hrs

Since long it has been a proper and sensibly mixed training week. I am still keen on doing more bike tours but gradually should build up more runs to get fit for autumn events.

On a very rainy Saturday I enjoyed my most beautiful tourist bike tour (RTF) ever. The route at Gevelsberg is situated at my doorstep but I finally managed to cycle it for the first time. It's green and hilly and follows lovely minor roads all the way. If I don't get a number for the Oetztaler next year I will do the Gevelsberg Bike Marathon next year which takes place at the same weekend.

Grand Prix Run

stats of the week: run 37km, cycled 138km

I never intended to take part in the popular run along Germany's historic Formula 1 course at the Nuerburgring. That is because I am not a fan of any kind of "motorsports" - I only do accept moving by muscle power as proper sports.

Alas - this time I was asked by B to assist as her escort. No question I would go and enjoy the race course. Since May my longest run has been just 12km - this was a race of 24.4km on a tough route. Luckily I managed to keep close on her heels and we finished after 2:28 hrs. Grand Prix drivers made it within 6 min!

Run am Ring

More than Chemistry

stats of the week: run 10km, cycled 203km, gym 3hrs

With the company of two very good friends I spent the weekend to care for Uwe's memorial plate on the Zugspitze. We were happy to find that his bronze shield was in perfect state. Just a bit of cleaning and polishing was to do to make it look like being new.

I don't believe in anything regarding religious beliefs. Technically I see any kind of life just as a chemical process. Sense and soul is just part of faith. Nevertheless there are lives which mean much more to me especially the one of those who departed this world far too early.

More Caucasian Views

stats of the week: run 20km, gym 2hrs

Now back home since 3 days I'm still working on putting in my Russian impressions.


Big buildings: Living in Baksan valley


Main street at Azan: Cable car village for Elbrus


Café Svetlana: Even small Russian children keep thinker's position

Garabashi station: Snow and ice are environment's best friend

Diesel Hut: Highest welcome on Elbrus at 4,050m

Top of Europe

stats of the week: no sports, just hill walking

My first visit to Russia led me to its highest point which is also the highest point of Europe.
I flew my home town's flag on the top of Elbrus at 5,642m - don't worry I took it with me on the way down.

Once you cross the mountain's snow border at the barrels huts at 3,700m the heavily littered moon like landscape changes to the vast glacial cover. The normal route is not technically difficult although long and strenuous - a whole day spent on crampons. Dangers of the weather should not to be underestimated. 15 to 30 fatalities are counted per year. As you see we were very lucky with the conditions and no problems occurred.

Let me start with the more beautiful views of Elbrus. A lot is to be told about my first impressions of Russia - ugly villages, abundant flora, meditarrenian towns, slopes of rubbish, multitude of monuments, people always ready to smile - more photos to come.