NEUJAHRSMARATHON

SUCCESSFUL ANNIVERSARY EDITION: 20 JAHRE NEUJAHRSMARATHON ZURICH 2025

We are filled with joy and pride that nearly 1,100 runners from 51 countries turned the 20th Neujahrsmarathon Zürich into an outstanding anniversary success, supported by our new main sponsor Vimazi and led by the new president of the organising committee, Tamara Schläpfer. We are particularly proud that the event stood out not only due to exceptional athletic performances but also for its unique atmosphere, and that we were able to record a new finishers’ record with 1,041 participants.

The conditions were challenging: with -3°C and high humidity, the weather demanded a great deal from the runners. However, the clear night sky, featuring views of the moon, stars, and fireworks, provided a spectacular backdrop that rewarded their efforts.

The women’s race offered a thrilling spectacle. Maja Hügli from Gränichen started with a steady pace in the first half. Although she lost some time in the second half, she managed to maintain a strong tempo despite the cold temperatures. She crossed the finish line in 3:25:36, securing her second victory after her triumph in 2022.

The 22-year-old Viola Naef from Belmont impressed with a strong strategy, achieving negative splits across all four laps. With a finishing time of 3:29:45, she deservedly claimed second place.

Anna Rhyner from Wilen bei Wollerau started the race at a blistering pace, completing the first lap in just 48:46 minutes. However, her pace slowed in the middle sections, particularly during the final lap. She finished in 3:30:47, taking third place.

Phil Besson from TV Thalwil delivered an impressive performance in the men’s race. He completed the first lap in a swift 35:43 and maintained a remarkably consistent pace throughout the following laps. With a finishing time of 2:29:51 and an average pace of 3:33 minutes per kilometre, he successfully defended his victory from the previous year.

Eric Riungu from Kenya, competing for LA Mutschellen, kept pace with Besson during the first two laps. However, his speed dropped in the third lap, and he struggled with the cold and challenging conditions in the final stretch. Despite this, he secured a well-earned second place with a time of 2:36:35.

Philipp Arnold from the Leichtathletik-Club Zurich started at a more moderate pace but delivered a consistent performance throughout the race. He finished in 2:39:15, earning third place. His steady performance reflects his experience on this course, marking his tenth podium finish here.

A particular highlight of the event was the category victory of Neujahrsmarathon Zürich founder and honorary president, Roger Kaufmann. To celebrate the anniversary, he made the exceptional decision to compete in the full marathon distance for the first time – a truly memorable moment for the event's history.

Furthermore, our long-standing commentary duo competed against each other and the other teams in the Team Run. Alain Helfenstein’s team emerged victorious and secured second place overall. Franco Marvulli, former professional cyclist and Champion of Champions, was part of a team that also included Olympic bobsleigh champion Beat Hefti and Dominik Nussbaum, who ran his lap in full firefighter uniform.

A heartfelt thank you goes to all participants who made this anniversary run unforgettable, as well as to the tireless volunteers, without whom this success would not have been possible. We also extend our gratitude to our sponsors. Your commitment and enthusiasm have turned the 20th Neujahrsmarathon Zürich into a milestone event.

Thank you for your passion and support!

We have exciting news to announce! Vimazi, previously a category sponsor of our marathon, has decided to deepen its commitment and is now the proud main sponsor of the Neujahrsmarathon Zürich! This partnership not only means significant support for our race, but also an exciting development for all running enthusiasts.
But that's not all - we have more to report! In May 2024, Vimazi Europe GmbH opened the world's first concept store in Affoltern am Albis at Zürichstrasse 78. This store is not just a place to sell running shoes, but a true competence center for everything to do with running. Here you can not only test the latest models from Vimazi, but also take part in courses and information events to expand your running knowledge and improve your performance. The location is central and only 5 minutes from the train station, with 5 free parking spaces right outside the door.
We are particularly pleased that this collaboration is taking place just in time for our 20th anniversary! A milestone for our marathon that has only been made possible by the support of our fantastic running community.

We would also like to announce that there will be a change in the presidency of the Neujahrsmarathon Zürich from 2025. Tamara Schläpfer will take over the position of President! After three successful years, Jamie Vrijhof-Droese will remain in the OC for another year to ensure a seamless handover and to support Tamara in the best possible way. Jamie is stepping down due to career changes and is delighted to be her successor. Tamara has been a long-time supporter of the event and is already a member of the OC. We are convinced that she will fill the position with joy, competence and passion.

Welcome to the Neujahrsmarathon Zurich, the worldwide first held marathon every year that takes place on New Year's Eve in Zurich.

Every year our runners start into the new year with the starting pistol going off exactly at midnight so that the participants can run into the new year under a sky of fireworks. After passing the firework volcanos in front of the sports hall Unterrohr in Schlieren the runners make their way to Zurich running along the beautiful waterfront of the river Limmat for a 10.55km loop before passing the sports hall again where they will be cheered on by spectators.

This event is not only a unique opportunity to start the year in an active and healthy way but also a festive celebration that brings together runners and families from all over the world. Our marathon offers the unique opportunity for you to set a yearly world best times in your respective category that will then be confirmed by World Athletics.

But that's not all. Our event is not only a marathon, but we also have a half marathon, a quartemarathon, and a group race (relay) for those who want to participate in a team. And for our youngest runners, we have a free kids run at 10 pm, so the whole family can take part in this unforgettable experience.

After you finish your race, we have a party waiting for you. Our hall offers a fantastic DJ, food, and drinks to help you celebrate your achievement and start the New Year in style.

So, join us for the Neujahrsmarathon Zurich and make your New Year's Eve unforgettable. Come and be a part of this festive celebration of sport and community. We look forward to seeing you on the starting line. You can register here.

NEUJAHRSMARATHON ZURICH

The first marathon held worldwide every year on New Year's Day

2025: SHORT DISTANCE AND KIDS RUN

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20 Jahre Neujahrsmarathon Zürich

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