Hamburg. Thorsten Schröder, the acclaimed speaker of "Tagesschau," has suffered a serious setback after sustaining injuries during training for one of the world's toughest triathlons, the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon, slated to take place on August 2, 2025, in Norway. While practicing on Fuerteventura, Schröder, 57, fell from his bicycle and broke his collarbone. "Ein Sturz, ein Knacken, schon war das Trainingscamp vorbei, bevor es richtig angefangen hatte," he lamented on Instagram, summarizing his unfortunate accident.
Despite the pain and the unexpected halt to his rigorous training regime, Schröder remains optimistic. Known for his exceptional determination, he posted on social media with his left arm supported by a sling, sipping from a large mug and sporting a smile. “Statt Leistungsschub auf Fuerte erstmal Pause. Und trotzdem die Hoffnung, am 2.8. fit in den Eidfjord zu springen,” he shared, expressing his hope to participate even though he is currently focusing on recovery.
The upcoming triathlon, which takes place at Eidfjord, is nothing short of grueling: participants must complete a 3.8-kilometer swim, 180-kilometer bike ride, and then finish with a marathon, all the time overcoming more than 5,000 meters of altitude. This extreme event is not for the faint-hearted.
Upon initial analysis of his injury, Schröder confirmed he will need surgery on his collarbone but is determined to prevail. He is not letting this setback dampen his spirits as he contemplates his return to training. The athlete has previously tackled the Ironman competitions successfully, finishing particularly well at the famed Ironman races held in Hawaii during 2017 and 2022.
Schröder, who has been with NDR since 1991 and has been presenting "Tagesschau" since 1999, has woven his life with athletics. Along with being the voice of the news, he has chronicled his experiences as a triathlete, authoring books such as "Mit jeder Faser" and "Nachrichten vom Ironman." This latest venture involves him sharing the challenges and triumphs surrounding his quest for completion of extreme races.
Before his accident, Schröder had engagements lined up, including readings from his latest book. Regrettably, he announced the postponement of his reading scheduled for March 13, 2025, in Kiel. Fans have been assured it will be rescheduled for April 17, 2025. Meanwhile, another reading set for March 27, 2025, in Hamburg will continue as planned, maintaining his commitment to his audience.
The echoes of the triathlon trainer’s tough demanding circuits resonate with the philosophy of discipline and endurance. Much like the triathlon itself, where stamina is key, Schröder’s resolve to return to the sport and work through his recovery exemplifies the spirit of determination.
The Norseman Xtreme Triathlon stems from the early years of triathlon history, initiated as one of the sport's completest challenges since its premiere in 2003. It combines the elements of swimming, cycling, and running, requiring not just physical agility but also mental resilience—essentials for anyone participating.
Schröder, who was still recovering from his bicycle collision, remains focused on adapting to the challenges of both injury and impending athletic commitments. He iterated, "Das Wichtigste: gesund werden!" following his collision, emphasizing the need for health above all as he plans for the future. His fans and well-wishers remain supportive, eagerly anticipating his return to both the triathlon scene and his role at "Tagesschau" starting March 16, 2025.