The 2026 GVG-Winterstaffel, scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026, will take place in Pulheim, Germany, with the start and finish line at the Geschwister-Scholl-Gymnasium, located at Hackenbroicher Straße 66b. The event is expected to take place in winter conditions, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 7°C, and possible light snow or frost. The course is a 5-kilometer circuit designed for relay racing, with the start, finish, and exchange zones all situated at the same central location. Participants can expect a structured, well-marked route that accommodates various race formats, including individual 5 km, 10 km, half marathon, and marathon distances, as well as a six-stage relay covering the full marathon distance. The course has been measured according to international competition guidelines, though it is not eligible for official record lists.
What distances are available for this event?
→5 km Volkslauf (one lap of the circuit)
→10 km Volkslauf (two laps)
→Half Marathon (21.0975 km) – 1.095 km opening lap + four 5 km circuits
→Marathon (42.195 km) – 2.195 km opening lap + eight 5 km circuits
What relay categories are available?
→Men's teams
→Women's teams
→Mixed teams (minimum three legs must be run by women)
What are the rules for the Winterstaffel (Marathon Relay)?
→The relay consists of six stages covering the full marathon distance
→Leg 1: 7.195 km (opening lap + first circuit)
→Leg 2: 5 km
→Leg 3: 10 km (two circuits)
→Leg 4: 5 km
→Leg 5: 10 km (two circuits)
→Leg 6: 5 km
→No runner may complete two consecutive legs
→Individual leg times are recorded by position only, allowing flexible runner substitutions without notifying organizers
→Relay batons must be returned at the finish, with a €25 replacement fee if lost
How much does registration cost?
→Marathon Relay: €80 (€88 after January 25, 2026)
→5 km / 10 km: €18 (€22 after January 25, 2026)
→Half Marathon: €27 (€31 after January 25, 2026)
→Marathon: €40 (€46 after January 25, 2026)
What is included in the registration fee?
→Transponder timing chips
What is the maximum finish time for the event?
→5 hours
What safety rules apply to the event?
→Headphones are prohibited for safety reasons
→Baby joggers and dogs are not permitted on the course
What awards or recognition are given to participants?
→All half-marathon and marathon finishers (individual and relay) receive a commemorative medal at the finish line
What is the course measurement standard?
→The course has been measured according to international competition guidelines, though it is not eligible for official record lists
What is the weather forecast for the event date?
→Temperatures are expected to range from 2°C to 7°C, with possible light snow or frost conditions in Pulheim on February 1, 2026
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 GVG-Winterstaffel?
A: The event takes place on 1 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Pulheim, Germany.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 42 km.
