In a remarkable display of stamina and dedication, Schlager star Mickie Krause took to the streets of Leipzig on Sunday, April 13, 2025, to participate in the 47th Leipzig Marathon, just hours after performing at the renowned 'Schlagernacht des Jahres' event the night before. At 54 years old, Krause, who is no stranger to the rigors of live performances, proved his mettle by running a marathon after an evening filled with music and entertainment.
Krause, known for his upbeat party anthems, revealed in the 'Aber bitte mit Schlager' podcast that he would be joining the marathon festivities, marking what he believes to be his 18th or 19th marathon. "This is going to be another exciting challenge for me," he stated, showcasing his passion for long-distance running.
Having previously conquered the Leipzig marathon in an impressive time of 3 hours and 34 minutes back in 2017, Krause is no stranger to the demands of the race. He trains rigorously, hitting the pavement four times a week, ensuring that he is always prepared for the next challenge. "I’m hoping for a great time again this year," he said with optimism.
As the marathon unfolded, the streets of Leipzig buzzed with energy, with more than 1,400 runners registered for the full marathon and over 5,100 participants in the half marathon. The event kicked off at 9:30 AM for the marathon runners, followed by various other races throughout the day, including a 4-kilometer run starting at 9:40 AM and a half marathon commencing at 12:15 PM.
Despite the excitement, the marathon did not come without its challenges. The race route was altered this year due to construction work on the Zeppelin Bridge, prompting adjustments to ensure the safety and efficiency of the race. Participants were guided along a modified path that still showcased the beauty of Leipzig, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Gewandhaus and the Grassi Museum.
As the runners traversed the streets, the atmosphere was electric. Families and friends lined the route, cheering on their loved ones. Anna McDougall, an Australian participant, was seen high-fiving her children, Sebastian and Mathilda, as she made her way through the 4-kilometer course. The camaraderie among runners and spectators alike added to the festive spirit of the marathon.
For Krause, the marathon was not just another race; it was a testament to his commitment to both his music and his passion for running. Last year, he had already proven his ability to perform and then compete, running a marathon in Hannover just a day after the 'Schlagernacht des Jahres' in Mannheim, finishing with a time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. "I’m excited to see what I can do this time around," he shared before the race.
As the marathon continued, spectators were treated to the sight of runners pushing through the physical demands of the race. With the race route closed to traffic from 9 AM to 4 PM, the city of Leipzig transformed into a haven for athletes, with various running events taking place simultaneously. The diverse range of races allowed participants of all ages and abilities to join in the fun, from the Stadtwerke Schülermarathon for youngsters to the 10-kilometer run for those seeking a shorter challenge.
In the lead-up to the marathon, the city had implemented numerous road closures and traffic restrictions to ensure a smooth event. The start area on the street "Am Sportforum" was closed to individual traffic from 6:15 PM on Saturday, April 12, until 6 PM on Monday, April 14, creating a safe environment for all participants.
As runners crossed the finish line, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. The marathon not only served as a platform for seasoned runners like Krause but also encouraged newcomers to embrace the joy of running. The event has become a staple in Leipzig’s sporting calendar, drawing participants from near and far.
With the marathon now in full swing, all eyes were on the runners as they navigated the course. The excitement of the day was palpable, with participants giving their all in pursuit of personal bests and the thrill of competition.
As the day progressed, the marathon's organizers and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that everything ran smoothly. Their dedication to the event is a testament to the community spirit of Leipzig, where sports and culture intertwine seamlessly.
In a city rich with history, the Leipzig Marathon continues to be a highlight of the year, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also the vibrant spirit of its participants and spectators. The event has become a celebration of endurance, community, and the love of running.
As the sun began to set on a successful marathon day, Mickie Krause's performance was just one of many stories that emerged from the event. With more races to come and the promise of new challenges ahead, participants left with memories that would last a lifetime, eagerly anticipating next year's marathon.
