One hell of a run
On 27 February 2027, the Original Streif will become the ultimate challenge: the VERTICAL UP involves covering 3.312 km and 860 metres of elevation gain as quickly as possible. Who will make history in Kitzbühel, the most legendary sporting town in the Alps?
The best bit about the whole thing is the rules – there aren’t any!
You are free to choose your own equipment, provided that you use your own muscle power (no motor), and you are free to choose your route on the Streif (speed class) or the Familienstreif (backpack class). Suggested equipment: touring skis, cross-country skis, running shoes with spikes, crampons, snowshoes, ski poles, barefoot, etc.
FAQ
You must collect your starter pack in person from the race office and hand in the signed declaration of participation and disclaimer. Instructions from security staff must be followed at all times. Participants must be in good health at the start of the race. The organiser expressly points out that taking painkillers or similar medication before the race can be life-threatening. Participation is at your own risk.
No. Young children and pets are not permitted on the course.
If you have to withdraw early, experience health problems or the race is abandoned, you must contact the marshals immediately.
No. Refunds are not available, and it is not possible to carry the entry over to the following year. Furthermore, no substitute entrant may be named during the race week.
Yes. The form must be printed out, completed, signed and brought to the race office.
Participants under the age of 18 must have the declaration signed by their parents or guardians and hand it in at the race office.
Yes – a starter pack will be put together for all participants again. The contents are a surprise.
Essential equipment:
- Head torch
- Helmet (helmets available to hire at the race office – limited availability)
- Rucksack (only for the rucksack class)
Yes, Snowline Spikes can be purchased at a special price at the K3 KitzKongress and reserved when you register.
There is a gross timing system. The chip is integrated into the race number. Athletes who have not crossed the finish line after 2 hours and 40 minutes will not be included in the results, but are of course welcome to complete the race.
The times appear on the live timing page (raceresult) immediately after crossing the finish line.
Start: 6.30 pm directly at the Hahnenkamm finish hut (Red Bull/Rasmushof). The finish is at the Streif start hut.
Speed class: You must conquer the Original Streif.
Backpack class: You may take the alternative route via the Familienstreif, but must run up the Ganslernhang at the start.
No. Everything must be done under your own steam; outside help is not permitted.
Yes:
- Seidlalm refreshment station: Tea
- Finish area: Tea and cold drinks
- Dinner from 7.30 pm at K3 KitzKongress
Yes. All athletes who cross the finish line will receive a finisher’s medal.
Certificates can be downloaded directly from the results page. Photos of participants are available via Sportshot.
By the Hahnenkammbahn only.
Last descent: 9.30 pm (free for participants – please show your race number).
No! That is strictly forbidden and will result in a lifetime ban from Vertical Up.
Yes. Free showers are available at the Aquarena (behind K3) from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm – after that, they are no longer available.
- 7.30 pm Dinner at K3 KitzKongress with music
- 9.45 pm Official prize-giving ceremony (prizes awarded only to those present)
Followed by an after-race party with live music and a bar
Disqualification will be imposed, amongst other things, for:
- unauthorised equipment
- outside assistance
- unsportsmanlike behaviour
- Race number not visible
- Littering outside the refreshment station
- Leaving the course on skis/with equipment
- Switching from speed mode to backpack mode is not permitted (the reverse is allowed)
Under no circumstances will the entry fee be refunded. It is not possible to carry the entry over to the following year, nor is it possible to nominate a substitute.
