Under the motto "Together we are strong", the event has been bringing together athletes with and without disabilities on a shared route since 2008. Organised by the Rotary Club Gallneukirchen - Gusental, the run is all about inclusion and togetherness.
A record result for a good cause
A record sum of over EUR 8,000 was raised at the most recent, 14th edition in 2024. The proceeds will benefit the disabled sports department of SV Gallneukirchen, which has received over EUR 82,000 in support since the initiative began. Around 250 participants ran the 2 x 2 kilometre course, accompanied by prominent sports personalities such as Nordic combined athlete Lukas Greiderer and para-canoeist Mendy Swoboda.
But the run is much more than just a charity marathon. It combines sport and social commitment in a unique way by bringing people together - regardless of age, origin or physical condition. The fact that there is no timekeeping emphasises its inclusive character: it is not the competition that counts here, but the community.
#schongenial asked the initiator and organiser Klaus Dorninger from RC Gallneukirchen -Gustental for an interview:
#schongenial: Mr Dorninger, how did the idea of organising a charity run for the benefit of disabled sports come about?
Klaus Dorninger: The idea came about during my presidential year in 2007/08, when I saw a 'Run for Homeless' in front of St Paul's Cathedral during a visit to London. I was immediately inspired by this campaign. Gallneukirchen, with its active inclusion through the Diakoniewerk, seemed to me the perfect place for a similar project. My aim was not only to provide financial support for disabled sports at SV Gallneukirchen, but also to create a shared sporting experience for people with and without disabilities.
#schongenial: Why was timekeeping deliberately omitted?
Klaus Dorninger: The focus is on the shared experience. Timekeeping would have diluted the inclusive character of the event. It's not about who is the fastest, but about being together. That was the priority from the very beginning.
#schongenial: What memories do you have of the first event in 2008?
Klaus Dorninger: I remember the excitement and anticipation before the first race. One of the most important lessons was that good preparation and planning are crucial - they make up 90% of success. Equally important are strong partners from business and the media who support the project.
#schongenial: How does the cooperation between the Rotary Club, SV Gallneukirchen, the municipality and the sponsors work?
Klaus Dorninger: Cooperation is the key to success. SV Gallneukirchen, the social welfare organisation, the emergency services and many others work closely with us. Sponsors such as UNIQA insurance and Backaldrin as well as the media also play an important role by providing us with continuous support. And on the day of the event, the many helping hands of our Rotarians are indispensable.
#schongenial: When will the next "Lauf mit!" take place?
Klaus Dorninger: The next run is planned for 24 May 2025 at 15:00. As usual, the start will be at Gasthaus Riepl in Gallneukirchen.
#schongenial: Thank you very much and good luck with this year's edition of the run.
#schongenial, what can be achieved when what we have in common comes before what divides us. And that over many years!
