FACES Issue #2: Rotraut Zylka
How long have you been involved?
I was responsible for the award ceremony at the first Berlin-Marathon in 1974, which took place in the Grunewald forest back then. Afterward, I spent seven years driving for the shuttle service, organizing the VIP brunch and get-together receptions, and looking after the athletes. In all those years, there was only one time I couldn't attend the Berlin Marathon—because I’d had a bicycle accident shortly before.
Do you have a favorite event?
For me, every event has its own special something. Of course, the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON and the GENERALI BERLINER HALBMARATHON are absolute highlights—partly because the world comes to visit Berlin, and also because of the many top athletes and records. But another, much smaller event has become very dear to my heart over the years: the “Dress Rehearsal” in August. It used to take place in the Grunewald, but now it’s held right in my neighborhood in Steglitz. It still retains the lovely, original charm of a smaller running event and shows us where we started. For many athletes planning to make their Berlin Marathon debut a few weeks later, it’s a real test to see if their preparation is on track. That said, things can always go wrong—which is only human. I like that; it reminds me of how we started out over 50 years ago.
Which special moment was the best one for you?
That actually wasn't so long ago. During the 50th-anniversary celebrations, a fantastic exhibition on the history of the Berlin-Marathon was set up at the Brandenburg Gate. It was called "MOVE"; it was beautifully done and really moved me. As I took my time looking at the many photos and exhibits from the last 50 years of the Berlin-Marathon, I realized just what a massive event it has become. And it’s a wonderful feeling to have been part of it all along.
Who would you like to hang a medal around their neck at the finish line?
There is a long list of very special people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting over the years. One of my favorites is Eliud Kipchoge; I used to serve him his peppermint tea at the athletes' hotel. He loved my tea, and I really loved his smile. He went on to set two world records at our event. Maybe it was the tea? Who knows?
I also really enjoyed the time spent with "Mocki" (Sabrina Mockenhaupt). Her natural, open, and cheerful "Cologne" personality made every encounter a real joy. We always shared a lot of laughs. But as I said, there are so many people who deserve a medal.
Find out more about Rotraut Zylka in this video.
