The annual Spree Marathon took place on 15 and 16 October 2022. More than 40 athletes from Denmark, France, Austria and Germany took part in this exciting race. All participants travelled together to the start in a large bus. The start was again on the bank of the Spremberg dam. As soon as the start signal sounded, the athletes ran to their boats and SUP boards. From there, they set off in a triangular course across the reservoir. After they had mastered the first portage, the boats were lowered into the Spree. The destination was the boathouse in Cottbus. On the way to the finish, the participants crossed more riverbed swells and portages, including refreshment stations. After 22 kilometres, the first boat reached the finish of the first stage, with a time of 01:42:02. After all the water sports enthusiasts had mastered the first day's stage, they could fortify themselves with a bowl of hot kettle goulash. The first day of the Spree Marathon was now over and the participants prepared for the second and final stage. 

The second day of the Spree Marathon began with bright sunshine. The start was on the boathouse grounds. The athletes had the choice of starting on the water or on land, as the first portage could be reached quickly on foot as well as in a boat. Ahead of them lay a 29-kilometre stretch to reach the finish (Leineweber boathouse in Burg). Here, too, the participants had to overcome some obstacles, such as boat slides and more riverbed swells. At the finish line, all the athletes were welcomed with loud applause and music. As a memento and appreciation of their sporting success, each participant was presented with a finisher's medal. The three fastest boats also received the typical Spreewald gherkins. Afterwards, the bus took us back to the boathouse in Cottbus.
We would like to thank all the helpers who supported us both on the course and at the boathouse. 

We would also like to thank all the athletes for their participation and hope to see them again next year for the 4th Spree Marathon in 2023!