The 14th edition of the Vertical Up in Kitzbühel took place, with around 1,000 athletes from 24 nations once again taking on the challenge on the legendary Streif. On the 3,312-meter-long course, with an altitude gain of 860 meters, participants delivered thrilling duels and exciting competitions. The speed class challenged the athletes with the demanding original course and impressive timing. In the men's speed class, Swiss athlete Martin Anthamatten triumphed with a time of 30:39.5 minutes, just missing the course record by 10 seconds. Christian Hoffmann, the record holder, finished in second place with a time of 31:22.8 minutes. The race was also hard-fought among the women, with Swiss athlete Victoria Kreuzer winning the race with a time of 39:27.4 minutes.

"We are incredibly proud that athletes from 24 nations are competing, and it's especially gratifying to see so many young runners taking part. The longest trip was made by a participant from Florida," said Bianca Riegel from the organizing team. "The Vertical Up on the Streif has once again established itself as a unique event, attracting athletes from around the world. With an unchanged course, we were able to offer the proven challenge that suits both elite athletes and recreational runners."

In addition to the speed class, there was also the backpack class, which focused on fun and camaraderie. Here, Annalisa Steiner won, coming within 9 seconds of the average time of all runners.

Once again this year, impressive costumes were featured in the best dressed category, which were very popular with spectators. Particularly outstanding were the ladies from the "Hauptsache schön" group, who attracted attention with their brightly lit hair, and the Landjugend Kitzbühel, who carried a Maypole up the Streif.

As in previous years, the largest team was Bergsport Überall.
 

We are thrilled to have generated so many registrations again this year. We are especially proud to have athletes from 24 nations and so many young talents at the start. Thank you!

Please note that we have a participant limit. On our registration page, you can see how many spots are still available in each race category. So sign up quickly and join us!

On October 14th, 2024, at 14:10, the registration window for the 14th Vertical Up will open.

You can register here. We look forward to your participation!

Thank you to all the athletes, helpers, and partners. It was an amazing race again, and we appreciate all the emails and comments saying that you enjoyed it.

Photos are now online on our website and on Sportograf.

We’re looking forward to 2025!

Due to the weather fluctuations in the past weeks, we regret to inform you that ALL classes will now start at the Ganslernhang, meaning the Speed Class will no longer pass through the Traverse. Any participant attempting to take this route will be disqualified. This decision has been made in the interest of ensuring the safety of all athletes.

Late registrations can now only be made in person at the race office in the K3 KitzKongress on Friday from 5-7 PM and on Saturday from 2-5 PM. Please refrain from sending emails.

Before the big athletes start, the stage belongs to the young ones! On February 24, 2024, at 5:30 PM, the meeting point will be at the start in the finish area.

The Kids' Vertical Up is all about fun! The children will run together for a few meters towards the Ganslernhang, passing through various gates and obstacles, and then glide back down on a snow slider or Zipflbob. They will be accompanied by the announcer and, hopefully, many cheering spectators.

After the medal ceremony and a little refreshment, they will stand in a torchlight formation to cheer on the big athletes at the start.

No registration is required. Winter clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended. Feel free to bring your own snow sliders and Zipflbobs.

We are incredibly excited to announce that we have secured eight-time Red Bull X-Alps champion Christian "Chrigel" Maurer for our Vertical Visions series! On February 23, 2024, at 7:30 PM, Chrigel will be holding a multimedia show at the K3 KitzKongress.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience firsthand the incredible stories and breathtaking visuals from one of the world's greatest extreme sports athletes. It’s going to be an unforgettable evening!

We look forward to seeing you there!