Markus Rössel – Germany
“The ÖTILLÖ organization not only managed to translate this foolish bet into one of the most iconic and outstanding endurance competitions, they also accomplish to set and keep setting organizational ideals with pioneering and progressive standards that reflect the modern requirements of racers and, most importantly, the environment they are showcasing their adventures in.”
-What do you like most about Swimrun?
The pure straightforwardness of the sport corresponding with the team aspect is undoubtedly the key feature I do like the most. I think it helps a bit that open-water swimming and running in itself are two activities that I treasure. To me the sport is a perfect endurance cocktail.
-How does Swimrun make you a better person in your everyday life?
This sport is just one fragment of my life. I’m not sure if it is that vital that it ultimately affects my overall life and makes me a better person. To me sports is an important part to my general well-being, mentally and physically. My life is composed around several parts and Swimrun is one of it. I think you can answer this question more philosophically but I believe that once you are happy and take care of others and yourself, you are a better person. If Swimrun endures to fulfill that goal of mine, then so be it.
.-If you could choose anyone you want as a partner (nobody you raced with before) for an ÖTILLÖ race, who would it be?
First of all I was extremely fortunate to have only raced with remarkable people. Sharing such an exceptional expedition with someone produces a proper bond for life. I’m happy that I can look back and say that everybody I competed with is someone I look back to and have only positive feelings about.
Therefore, I would love to race again with everyone that toed the line with me. However, my dream companion would be a creature I would shape out of the subsequent individuals:
- Swimming: In the water, nobody can beat Martin Strel. I treasure his plain idiocy and skill to hurt. And I cannot think of anyone else that would generate a better aquadynamic to draft than this dude.
- Running: On land, it has to be Steve Jones. An animal when it comes to cross country racing and a true legend on the roads with an unparalleled fighting spirit and a crave to win important races.
- Transitions: I would mix in a bit of Kilian Jornet for some suitable and reckless rock dancing.
- Mindset: Not only because of recent Netflix fame, it has to be Michael Jordan. His capability to lift and motivate others is unparalleled in the world of sports.
-What is your favorite meal the night before a race? I’m easy when it comes to food. As long as I can go to bed early anything without meat will do for me.
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