On 27 July at 15:45 our group started and I calculated that with a march duration of 22 hours we would cover the 100th kilometer at 13:45 on the following day and cross the finish line. The starting point was a sports club in Krailling near Munich. The route should lead once to the southerly end of Lake Starnberg, once around it and again back to the starting point. That Saturday, I was very nervous. The usual hustle and bustle at the start and the preceding drummers nevertheless provided a cheerful atmosphere. Then it was finally time: My two friends and I started what was probably the hardest march of our lives. At first, I found it strange to walk across the starting line armed with my backpack. After all, I was used to starting a race with 100 percent power and speed.
But after ten kilometers the strangeness gave way to another, more welcome feeling: I had fun. Almost 2,500 participants had started in Munich. This gigantic hiking group created a unique atmosphere. The first four hours we chatted about everything we could think of. Men, family, working life - no subject was neglected. After 25 kilometers we reached the first marshal. My feet were still fine at that time. My knees, ankle joints, muscles and shoulders didn't cause any problems either. Somewhat calmer, but in a good mood we set off again after a short break. Around 8 pm we reached the Isartrails and only a short time after the path in front of us and behind us was illuminated by many headlamps.