Motivation starts with a goal

It was a bright September day in 2012 when I had an encounter on the Filzenscharte, a pass that connects the Kitzbühel Brixental valley with Salzburg's Oberpinzgau region, that would change my life forever. We had just finished a photo shoot, and while the team was still packing up their equipment, I went a little way ahead to a drinking fountain at the start of the ridge. There stood an old man with a white beard and a first-generation mountain bike with a steel frame. Despite his age, he radiated incredible vitality. His muscles were impressive and his skin was taut. I could hardly believe that he had climbed the 1,000 metres in altitude to get here.

Curious, I approached him. He told me that he was 85 years old and had only started mountain biking when he was 75. At the time, he had knee problems and the doctors advised him to have an operation. But he refused and decided to take up cycling instead. This decision changed his life. Since then, there has hardly been a day when he hasn't been out in the mountains on his bike. In winter, he went skiing in Kitzbühel, where he had once worked as a mountain railway employee. On this day, he had set off from Kitzbühel to Westendorf, wanted to cross the Filzenscharte into the Oberpinzgau and return to Kitzbühel via Jochberg. I was stunned. Just to give you an idea, that was probably just over 80 kilometres and 1,600 metres in altitude. More than I had ever ridden in one go on my old bike.

This encounter stayed with me. The old man, Alois Vötter, known as "Stoa Lois", became my sporting role model. His story filled me with deep admiration and shook me awake. I was only 47 at the time and far removed from the fitness and satisfaction he radiated. But his words showed me that it's never too late to start something new that gives you pleasure and keeps you physically fit. I decided to start mountain biking again - this time seriously and consistently. My goal was clear: to take part in an MTB marathon race. I chose the Salzkammergut Trophy: It didn't take place until mid-July and I had plenty of time to prepare before then. The image of the Eternal Wall with its imposing view of Bad Goisern was particularly engraved in my mind - it made me look forward to the event with great anticipation. The E route with 54 kilometres and 1,700 metres of elevation gain was ambitious, but doable. With regular training, I should be able to do it.

I received my new carbon bike at the end of January. Until the cycle paths were clear of snow, I stepped up my ski tours to create a solid foundation. In April, I set off on my first bike tour from St. Johann in Tirol to Waidring and back. The first 40 kilometres were torture and my legs hurt so much that I could barely carry the bike into the cellar - I was exhausted. But I kept at it. Regular training gave me the strength and stamina to really enjoy riding after just a few weeks.

I got better and better and found a deep joy in going on extended tours in the mountain landscape of the Kitzbühel Alps. As the second week of July approached, I was ready for the Salzkammergut Trophy. The atmosphere at the start and during the race carried me through every challenge. When I crossed the finish line, I couldn't hold back the tears - an incredible feeling of happiness and fulfilment overcame me.

I was now travelling a lot in the region and planned a special tour for the autumn: part of the route that Alois rode on the day I met him on the Filzenscharte. My route took me from St. Johann to Westendorf and over the Filzenscharte to Neukirchen. I chose the option back via the Mühlbachgraben up to the Stangenjoch and via Kirchberg back to St. Johann. A total of 123 kilometres and 2,300 metres in altitude - a huge challenge and the highlight of my bike season.

As I approached the Filzenscharte, I saw two bikers in the distance. As I got closer, I couldn't believe my eyes - it was Alois and his nephew. What a joy for me! This moment showed me how much this encounter a year ago had changed me. Not only had I discovered a new passion, but I had also gained a completely new perspective on life: It's never too late to take a chance, challenge yourself and break new ground.

Alois Vötter, "Stoa Lois", died at the age of 96. Until then, I often met him on his bike. His inspiration lives on in me. Even today, at the age of 60, I am still a passionate mountain biker and use every free day to go on wonderful tours with my partner. The mountains are my home and mountain biking is more than just a sport - it's a way of life. I will always have fond memories of Alois, and I am grateful for the encounter that has had such a lasting impact on my life.

A mountain bike marathon challenges and encourages you on all levels: Steep climbs test your strength and endurance, rapid descents test your courage and concentration, while the often breathtaking surroundings provide pure exhilaration. But it's not just physical strength that counts - mental resilience is crucial in order not to give up, even on long, demanding passages. At the same time, the technical challenge requires precise riding technique and muscular stability so that you can navigate safely over roots, stones and steep bends. This perfect combination of physical and mental exertion, paired with the unrivalled feeling of the spirit of the race participants and the closeness to nature, is what makes such events so special.

If you are at home in Austria, Bavaria, South Tyrol or Switzerland, there are many exciting races on your doorstep. These offer you the chance to gain your first experience or pursue a long-term goal.

The Salzkammergut Trophy is one of the most legendary mountain bike races in Europe and an absolute highlight for bikers. It leads through the breathtaking mountain and lake landscape of the Salzkammergut, starting and finishing in Bad Goisern. With routes ranging from 22 to 210 kilometres, it offers options for beginners through to extreme athletes. The longest distance in particular demands everything, but rewards you with incredible panoramas and an unrivalled sense of community. The event takes place in July and is a must for anyone looking for a combination of sporting challenge and nature experience. More information: www.salzkammergut-trophy.at.

The race in Pfronten leads through the picturesque Allgäu Alps and offers a unique combination of flowing trails and tough climbs. With distances ranging from 26 to 76 kilometres, there is something for everyone - from hobby cyclists to experienced marathon bikers. The views of the surrounding peaks are particularly impressive and make the race a real pleasure. More info: www.mtb-marathon-pfronten.de

The Hero Südtirol Dolomites takes place in the heart of the UNESCO-protected Dolomites - a race that impresses with its magnificent scenery and challenging routes. Participants can choose between 60 and 86 km, with both variants characterised by steep climbs and technical descents. The Hero is not only a sporting highlight, but also an emotional one. More information: www.herodolomites.com

The National Park Bike Marathon leads through the impressive landscape of the Swiss National Park in the Engadine and inspires with spectacular race routes for beginners, families and professionals. It is one of the most beautiful bike events in Switzerland. This one-day race offers various route lengths, with the classic 137 km lap through unspoilt nature being an absolute highlight. The mix of technically challenging sections, long climbs and marvellous views make the race an unforgettable experience. More information: www.bike-marathon.com