Julia Mayer and Emil Bezecny secure the championship titles – all 1,852 participants support children with life-shortening illnesses.

On September 28, 2025, Amstetten once again transformed into a center of solidarity and sporting enthusiasm with a record participation of 1,852 runners. Runners competed in various events – in addition to the main events in various age groups at Amstetten's Umdasch Stadium and the Virtual Run throughout Austria, the field also included the professionals who competed for the national championship title. Under the motto "Helping by Running," they all set a strong example of supporting children with life-shortening illnesses.

The 9th running event of its kind in Amstetten offered a diverse program for all ages – from children's and youth runs and the Nordic walking competition to the challenging 5 and 10 km distances as part of the Children's Aid Run and the Austrian National Road Running Championships. The atmosphere along the course, as well as in the start and finish areas, was one of joy and enthusiasm. The ideal running weather, with light cloud cover, little wind, and temperatures below 20°C, ensured excellent results.

Fifth title in a row for Julia Mayer, first win for Emil Bezecny

Just two weeks after the World Championships in Tokyo, Julia Mayer (DSG Vienna) secured her fifth consecutive 10k title, completing the distance in 33:07 minutes. Larissa Matz (ULC Riverside Mödling) and Cordula Lassacher (Atus Knittelfeld) completed the podium. 

U23 runner Emil Bezecny from the Eisenstadt Athletics Academy won his first championship title in the general class with a time of 30:01 minutes, followed by Marcel Tobler (ULC Riverside Mödling) and local hero Niklas Keller (RATS Amstetten) in second and third place. 

A successful event in support of the Hilde Umdasch House of the Malteser Children's Aid

With their entry fees, all participants support the children and young people with life-shortening illnesses who receive loving care, support, and individual support at the Hilde Umdasch House of the Malteser Children's Aid. Managing Director Olivier Loudon commented: "We are overwhelmed by the tremendous response. Over 1,800 people took to the trail to actively do good – this is a strong sign of the humanity in the region." He added: "Our thanks go to all the running enthusiasts, but also to the numerous volunteers, sponsors, and partners who made the run possible in this form. Their commitment made this year's Children's Aid Run an unforgettable experience."