My SwimRun World Championships Half Marathon at SwimRun Rheinsberg 2025
Rheinsberg shines again as the venue for Germany's largest SwimRun
SwimRun Rheinsberg: A Sporting Event with Heart. These Women Prove It! © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
SwimRun World Championships draw scene to Lake Grienericksee
Especially the SwimRun World Championships over the half marathon distance at SwimRun Rheinsberg (organized by SCC EVENTS) attracted athletes from across Europe to the idyllic Lake Grienericksee. Among them was Celia Jentzsch, who had only weeks before claimed victory in the sprint distance at Costa Azahar – and now competed in Rheinsberg on the longer course, securing the world title here as well. "After winning in Spain, I was really motivated," Celia explains. "I realized my training pays off. It not only gave me motivation but also boosted my confidence. That made me much more relaxed at the start in Rheinsberg compared to last year."
Only a trained eye and pro-level gear can capture views like this © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Beautiful lakes and scenic trails in Rheinsberg
However, despite both races being labeled "Championships," there were worlds apart between Spain and Rheinsberg. "The biggest adjustment was definitely the distance," says Celia. "In Spain, the swimming part was much longer, plus it was in the open sea. In Rheinsberg, running dominated – you feel that in your legs. You have to consider that in your race strategy. The trails in Rheinsberg are nice and wide, which wasn't the case in Spain. Rheinsberg is better in that regard." The conditions were completely different too: "In Spain, we swam in saltwater – and anyone who's swallowed a bit knows how thirsty that can make you. In Rheinsberg, however, the lakes are really pleasant."
Celia Jentzsch on her way to World Championship title number two © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
SwimRun experience with plenty of pace
For Celia, this wasn't her first start in Rheinsberg. But this year, a heatwave added an additional challenge: "It was hot – over 30 degrees Celsius! I used every single refreshment point to drink. But the lakes were calm and clear, perfect for swimming. That's where I could really pick up the pace." The difference from the previous year was noticeable for her: "I intensified my swimming training – it paid off. Running went smoothly too. It's amazing to see how much can develop in a year."
SwimRun is a team sport. Pressure’s coming from behind! © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Atmosphere, camaraderie, and setting make Rheinsberg special
Celia experienced an especially emotional moment in the second lap: "The heat really got to me – my breathing was high, muscles were cramping. But then I got a real push, felt new energy, a real high that secured the victory. These are the moments you love this sport for." The atmosphere, camaraderie, and the picturesque setting with its many lakes – all of this makes SwimRun Rheinsberg something truly special for her.
Sustainability done right: Local fruit and reusable cups © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Rheinsberg as a crucial date in the competition calendar
Yet, the preparation was anything but ideal: "In the race in Spain, a wave threw me against a rock – bruised knee. Running was out of the question for a while." Instead, she switched to cross-trainers and biking, focusing on swimming. Just before the start in Rheinsberg, she was able to resume running training, albeit with some pain. "But the race was simply too important to me. I absolutely wanted to be there."
Young and old alike get their money’s worth at SwimRun Rheinsberg © SCC EVENTS / Petko Beier
Also Olympic starters, veterans, hippos, and young talents on site
Rheinsberg holds a special place in Celia's athletic history: "This is where it all began for me. The first race made me realize: SwimRun is my sport. Since then, it's had me hooked." Besides Celia, plenty of other well-known and lesser-known SwimRunners were present: From four-time Olympic triathlon starter Anja Dittmer to SwimRun veteran Michael Gerlach and Team Kiboko, not to mention around 30 young Bambini. Scene photographer Petko Beier captured remarkable moments both above and below water with his specialized equipment. Click here for pictures and results.
