After two years of cancellation, the König Ludwig Lauf returned to the Worldloppet calendar with a 42-kilometer skate-style race in Ettal, Germany. Austria's Alexander Brandner won the men's event, while Germany's Anna-Maria Dietze took the women's title under excellent conditions.
The König Ludwig Lauf, a prominent cross-country skiing marathon, resumed on Saturday in Ettal, Germany, marking its comeback after two consecutive cancellations. Competitors tackled a demanding 42-kilometer course in skate technique, benefiting from ideal snow and weather that ensured a smooth event.
In the men's race, Alexander Brandner of Austria crossed the finish line first, securing the top spot ahead of the German duo Valentin Haag in second and Jakob Milz in third. Brandner's performance highlighted his strong form in long-distance skating events, contributing to Austria's presence on the Worldloppet circuit.
The women's competition saw Germany's Anna-Maria Dietze emerge victorious, outpacing Switzerland's Carla Wohler for second place and fellow German Sigrid Mutscheller in third. Dietze's win underscored the depth of talent in German cross-country skiing, especially on home soil.
This revival drew international participants, reinforcing the event's status within the Worldloppet series. Organizers noted the excellent track preparation, which allowed skiers to focus on strategy and endurance without environmental disruptions. The race's return signals a positive trajectory for Nordic skiing competitions in the region, potentially boosting participation in future editions.
