Steffi, you are an integral part of the TORTOUR family. How many times have you been at the start and when was the first time?
Since 2017, TORTOUR fever has gripped me continuously – only in 2020 there was no start. After Roger Nachbur’s tragic accident, the race was canceled out of respect – a moment that deeply shocked us as a community.
My journey into ultracycling began with a bet in which a work colleague challenged me to a small race around Lake Zurich. At the time, I had neither a bike nor any experience. The first bike was later followed by a few gems and the planned duel turned into a joint team start for my first TORTOUR in 2017. TORTOUR, Women 1000er Solo is also on the agenda this summer and I would be very happy not to be the only woman there.
What fascinates you about ultracycling and why is the TORTOUR a fixture for you every year?
For me, swapping my office outfit for my jersey is yoga with kilometers – switching off, pushing boundaries and pure freedom. Preferably with great people by my side or with my crew. The TORTOUR is a fixed point every year, which embodies challenge, team spirit and the constant question “Is there more possible?”
And of course there is always more possible! From the original Lake Zurich distance increased to 1000 km solo and last year Paris-Zurich, this year Zurich-Vienna. My former self would have thought all this impossible and crazy – today it is pure enjoyment and fun.
You are starting the 1000 solo this year. How do you prepare in the winter?
My trainer and coach Harry holds the strict reins, to be honest, over everything: food, sleep, training and mobility. He is the real hero of my preparation and ensures that I find the right balance. That’s why my bike has been on a break since October – but I haven’t. My current focus is the upcoming HYROX in St. Gallen – definitely a change in the winter time.
My training plan is strict and holistic: nutrition plan as the most valuable basis. Then mental training, so that the ice-cold, rainy Tortour nights allow you to smile all the time. Strength and endurance on the ski ergometer, as well as rowing and running. Mobility training is also a must – because a flexible body suffers less. Every now and then I can be found on the cross-country ski trail, although this year I am skipping the Vasaloppet in Sweden.
Not to forget, my crew is also in constant preparation. We have made improvements from TORTOUR to TORTOUR. My longest-serving team member Franziska doesn’t miss a single optimization idea: crew vehicle, equipment, radio system,…. My sister also did a marathon first aid training course especially after the cycling accidents and is now a first responder paramedic in more than just my TORTOUR crew.
You work full-time and are an ultracyclist. How do you manage to juggle all of that?
Priorities, discipline and structure. Balancing health, family, close friends and job is not always easy – but it is essential. My daily routine is well-planned and yes, I am a proud member of the 5am Club – I train before the day even begins. Because in the end, discipline beats motivation. Every day.
Your most unpleasant moment on the bike? And your best experience?
The most unpleasant was certainly last year’s TORTOUR, when I got Shermer’s Neck. I just couldn’t hold my head up, even with the help of a neck brace. With a constantly limited view of the front wheel, my crew pulled the emergency brake at 900 kilometers and took me out of the race. That was a hard blow physically and mentally. Well, neck training should not be neglected either and wrestling methods have now been incorporated.
My best experience? To be honest: every finish line. Because each one represents a journey full of highs, lows and then that one magical moment of pure happiness.
We say thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Steffi – your answers are bursting with passion for the sport and clearly show what you can achieve with discipline and dedication. We wish you continued fantastic preparation and of course good luck for your start!
