Germany's longest cycling marathon: the Race Across Germany
Heavy legs, pouring rain, but also tears of joy: the Race Across Germany cycling marathon is a unique experience for Stefan Feilen. In the end, he needed 57 hours and 28 minutes to complete the 1,100 kilometre route, reaching the finish line in the required time - despite having to battle with difficulties time and again. His EMS suit from Antelope plays an important role both before and after the race.
How did the Race Across Germany feel for you compared to previous competitions?
Stefan: The race is actually no comparison to all the competitions before it. It was the toughest I've ever ridden. Even when I think back to 2019, when I took part in the Paris-Brest-Paris cycling marathon. It's another 100 kilometres further, but the Race Across Germany is more challenging. The metres in altitude are completely different and extremely challenging. I've also never ridden such a long distance with a support crew, always unsupported. Nevertheless, it went really well - until I crashed after kilometre 250. I saw a bump too late, hit it with my front wheel and rolled over.
What else was challenging for you?
Stefan: The first night after the crash was really bad. I cycled until half past two. I was struggling a lot with fatigue. And I was really, really cold because it rained for 300 kilometres. On the second night, my racing bike also broke down and I had to switch back to my time trial bike.
How did you take care of your muscle recovery after the race?
Stefan: My EMS suit from Antelope was definitely a big help. I've always had the feeling during EMS training that I get fit again quickly and don't have to struggle with sore muscles even after hard sessions. So on Monday, before we left, I put on the Antelope EMS suit in the morning and switched on the massage programme to slowly loosen up my muscles. In 2019, after Paris, I couldn't cycle for six weeks due to problems with my back and joints. My Achilles tendon was also inflamed. This time, I was back on the bike a week later for a relaxed session. My recovery is still ongoing, even though the race was over ten days ago. My hands are still numb.
What was your personal highlight of the race?
Stefan: 70 kilometres before Garmisch, my best friend and his partner were standing along the route. He came all the way down the 500 kilometres from Trier. When they were waiting at the finish line, that was a real highlight. I was crying with joy.