An event for all runners

It has been voted one of the most popular marathons in Germany with around 12,000 runners from more than 50 nations taking part each year.

Runners enjoy the performances of some 300 artists along the course while being cheered on by more than 100,000 spectators. The finish in Münster’s historic city centre becomes a true “party mile”: decorated with flags and a red carpet, it makes every finisher feel like a winner.

Several race distances make the event attractive for runners of all abilities. Alongside the classic marathon distance of 42.195 km the full course can also be tackled as a relay marathon by teams of four runners, each covering roughly 10 km. This popular relay competition is limited to 140 teams. Since 2022 the Wecker Run over 28 km (two-thirds marathon) has been offered for runners who are not yet ready for the full distance. The 28 km race can serve as an ideal step towards marathon preparation. Shorter options include a 10 km charity run and a 6 km health run without official timing. Younger runners aged 6 to 13 can take part in the children’s marathon over a distance of 1500 metres.

The Volksbank-Münster-Marathon offers a balanced mix of urban atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The race starts directly in front of Münster Castle. The opening kilometres lead through the historic city centre, along the green belt known as the Promenade and past Lake Aasee. The course then continues through the districts of Nienberge and through the scenic countryside towards Roxel and Gievenbeck. The final kilometres return to the city centre, finishing at the Prinzipalmarkt between the city’s famous gabled houses.