Pink, Power, Unity – The Anniversary of the VITAMIN WELL Women’s Race Berlin

Over 12,000 women, girls, and children, a sea of pink in Berlin’s Tiergarten, smiling faces despite rain showers – the 40th VITAMIN WELL Women’s Race Berlin was far more than just a race: an anniversary full of emotion, energy, and solidarity.

^{Plenty of emotions at the finish line of the anniversary edition. © SCC EVENTS / Tilo Wiedensohler}

Strong Together – Despite Showers and Cool Temperatures
By late morning, the Tiergarten was filled with anticipation. Whether running or walking over 5 km or 10 km, many participants started together with friends. The temperatures were chilly, and there was occasional drizzle – but none of that dampened the mood. Live music, numerous cheering points along the route, and above all the impressive solidarity among the participants made the Women’s Race a very special experience. Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment for many, with some tears of joy and pride.

For the first time, the start and finish were located right next to each other – this not only meant shorter distances but also created an even livelier atmosphere: spectators could cheer on the runners along multiple sections of the course, creating truly goosebumps-inducing moments.

^{Happy Nordic Walking at the VITAMIN WELL Women’s Race Berlin 2025. © SCC EVENTS / Tilo Wiedensohler}

Big Names, Great Stories

It became particularly emotional when Charlotte Teske, winner of the very first edition in 1984, shared her memories: back then on Father’s Day – and at a time when it was anything but a given that women would participate in a race at all. In the same year, she also took part in the first Olympic women's marathon in Los Angeles – a milestone for women’s running worldwide. Her return for the anniversary was not only a personal journey but also a tribute to the long path the Women’s Race has traveled since then.

Running icons Uta Pippig and Irina Mikitenko also hit the 5-km course together – visibly enjoying the atmosphere. “This isn’t about fast times – it’s about community,” emphasized Mikitenko. After her own run, Uta Pippig made sure to loudly cheer on other runners in the Tiergarten. Also at the start was Sabrina Mockenhaupt, who remains in fantastic shape. Mocki finished just behind the top runners from the Marathon Team Berlin – once again showing how much this race means to her. Watching from the sidelines was Kathrin Wessel, former World Championship bronze medalist over 10,000 meters and multiple German champion.

Sporting Spirit Despite the Community Focus

Even though the event primarily focuses on community spirit, it was competitive all the same: the 24-year-old Verena Goldfuß won the 5-km distance, while Debbie Schöneborn claimed first place over 10 kilometers in a strong 34:32 minutes. Shortly after, her sister Rabea Schöneborn (35:06 min) and Lucia Hemeling (35:34 min) crossed the finish line – all three representing the Marathon Team Berlin.

^{Rabea Schöneborn, Uta Pippig, Sabrina Mockenhaupt, Kathrin Wessel, Irina Mikitenko, Charlotte Teske und Debbie Schöneborn © SCC EVENTS / Sebastian Wells}

Running and Giving Back – €16,000 for the Berlin Cancer Society

The Women’s Race has always stood for social commitment. One euro from each participant’s entry fee is donated to the Berlin Cancer Society – many runners added extra donations. In the end, a donation check for over €16,000 was presented – a powerful sign of solidarity and support.

Thank You for 40 Unforgettable Years!

The 40th VITAMIN WELL Women’s Race was a celebration of movement, diversity, and emotion – and proof of what women can achieve together. We say THANK YOU to all participants, volunteers, partners, and fans. And we’re already looking forward to the next 40 years of Women’s Race history.