Kurt Matzler usually rides the Race across America with his wife Ruth Brandstetter and two other Rotarian cyclists in the summer – for a good cause. This year he stayed home – and toured his home country.
The tour was a particular physicla challenge: approximately 2,200 kilometers and over 30,000 meters in altitude. Kurt Matzler, Xtrem athlete, professor of strategic management at the University of Innsbruck wanted to dare. And in mid-August, he did!
Helpers and supporters of all stripes gathered at the edge of the course to facilitate the ascents – here with air guitar and cheers as well as a team of cyclists who lent their support on part of the course.
The day of departure was August 10 in St. Georgen im Attergau. The route always led along the Austrian borders, so that after a complete tour of the country he returned to Saint-Georgen after five days, two hours and 27 minutes.
Supported by “the most professional crew with the experience of Race Across America” he was able to focus on cycling. “I was guided, massaged, treated, fed, motivated – and whipped forward if I had to,” he said.
“The crew literally took care of everything and solved all the difficulties.” On his Facebook page, Matzler spoke of an “incredible experience, with all the ups and downs you can imagine.” Because with knee problems, muscle cramps and lack of sleep, there were unfortunately a few other obstacles and problems to overcome besides the Austrian mountains.
Some of them have gone a long way to motivate Kurt Matzler.
Matzler crossed the finish line in 8th place – an excellent result. Matzler had previously competed four times with a Rotary team in Race Across America – nearly 5,000 km across the United States. The four Rotarian cyclists, including his wife Ruth Brandstetter, and their supporters raised more than $ 3 million in donations to benefit End Polio Now. Apart from what was expected, participation was not possible this year – but a huge sporting achievement like the Race Around Austria!
The good cause is still either here :. Matzler and his team have been collecting donations for End Polio Now since fall. A total of 27,000 euros has already been raised. If you want to help reload the amount: please send the transfers to
Cycling to Serve Austria
IBAN: AT59 2032 0322 0228 5619