Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival attracts cycling legends to Bad Dürrheim

The first Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival attracted around 4,000 cycling enthusiasts to Bad Dürrheim in the Black Forest last weekend. Despite a broken collarbone, which he suffered in an accident in the previous week Jan Ullrich did not miss the opportunity to spend the weekend with his fans and former celebrity companions. However, the 1997 Tour de France winner had to forego active participation on his bike. Numerous cycling legends accepted the invitation to Bad Dürrheim in the Black Forest. Among the star guests were Lance Armstrong, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Udo Bölts, Simon Geschke, Andreas Klöden, Danilo Hondo, Johan Bruyneel and Rudy Pevenage. Their presence lent the event a special radiance and gave visitors the opportunity to experience their idols up close.

The festival kicked off on Saturday with the opening of the new dirt bike park in Bad Dürrheim. Jan Ullrich inaugurated the new cycling destination together with Mike Kluge. An extensive supporting programme provided entertainment into the evening hours. Visitors enjoyed concerts by the Dorfrocker, the Baaremer Luusbuäbä and an SWR3 party. A special highlight was on the programme for an exclusive group of registered guests on Saturday evening: the "Dinner of Legends". At this culinary event, participants had the opportunity to socialise with the celebrity guests in a small group and hold personal conversations.

Highlight: Joint ride with the cycling legends

Sunday began with a stage talk in which the cycling legends in attendance gave insights into their careers and discussed current developments in cycling. This was followed by the highlight of the weekend: the Cycling Tour on a 29.7 kilometre circuit. 490 registered cycling fans set off together with the cycling legends. Participants had the opportunity to complete up to four laps. During the tour, the focus was on fun and shared experiences. Nevertheless, there were two timed segments per lap to provide a sporting incentive. The winners of these segments were honoured on stage at the end of the Cycling Tour. An attractive supporting programme was offered for visitors who were not actively taking part in the tour. Particularly impressive was a spectacular BMX show, which thrilled the spectators with daring stunts and tricks.

Positive balance sheet and outlook

Jan Ullrich was delighted with the event despite his injury-related restrictions. "It was a wonderful event for me with many emotional moments and encounters. I'm very sad that I wasn't able to take part," explained the former professional cyclist. With a smile, he added: "However, for me it was more exhausting today than the Tour de France, even without cycling. But I'm already looking forward to next year and will prepare myself as quickly as possible." Kai Sauser, Managing Director of the organising Sauser Event GmbH, also drew a positive balance: "A great cycling weekend is behind us. We are thrilled with how many fans came and what a special atmosphere there was on site. Our thanks go to all the cycling legends who took part - and of course especially to Jan Ullrich, without whom this event would not have been possible." The successful debut of the Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival gives hope for a continuation in the coming years. The combination of celebrities, active participation and a varied supporting programme has proven to be an attractive concept that draws cycling fans from all over the region.