Since 1968, the König Ludwig Run has combined sporting tradition, voluntary commitment and the promotion of young talent.
Promoting young talent
matter of the heart
The König Ludwig Lauf promotes sport and supports clubs. As far as we can, the club world in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park is supported every year. Young talent is particularly important to us; they are the future of all clubs. Through our partners and also through prominent support, we are able to be a supporting pillar for the commitment of the club world or sport. We try to sustainably support the diversity of clubs, popular sports and especially young talent in winter sports. Already since 1968.
Our campaigns such as “König Ludwig Lauf sets a school” also aim to get young people excited about cross-country skiing and winter sports. Exercise in the fresh air is important, especially for children and adolescents.
We are happy to be able to give something back.
King Ludwig Lauf Est. 1968
Tradition since 1968
The König Ludwig Lauf was founded in 1968 as the Bavarian cross-country skiing event "In King Ludwig's footsteps" in Oberammergau. The first race took place on March 17, 1968. Originally it was the longest ski marathon in the world at 90 km, but this distance was shortened in the 1980s to ensure that the race could take place. It is the largest cross-country skiing event in Germany and is held in Oberammergau and Ettal in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park. Initially, the König Ludwig Lauf was purely a male domain, until women were also allowed to take part in 1980. He is part of the Worldloppet series and also a founding member of the Worldloppet Association, an association of the 20 largest ski marathon events worldwide.
Athletes from over 30 nations take part every year. Just two years after it was founded, over 1,000 sports enthusiasts were welcomed to the Ammergau Alps. Due to the cosiness, the hospitality of the helpers and the unique natural and cultural landscape, the event is a must for every amateur and professional athlete.
The start traditionally takes place on the first weekend in February in Ettal, the destination is the Oberammergau sports center. Routes of 50 km and 21 km are offered in classic (Sunday) and skating (Saturday) formats, as well as the so-called “Mini Kini” over 6 km and 4 km for children between 6 and 14 years old. At the same time, the world championship in cross-country skiing for doctors and pharmacists over 21 and 50 km is taking place. The traditional long route leads from the start in Ettal through the Graswangtal, directly past Linderhof Castle, back through the Graswangtal to the finish in Oberammergau.
Professional, familiar and cozy
From the very beginning, the König Ludwig Lauf has been supported by volunteers, clubs and institutions in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park. The cohesion, commitment and commitment of each individual make the König Ludwig Lauf something unique. Historically grown, professional, familiar and Bavarian cozy. This is only possible with the help of over 400 volunteers. A community effort.
