Battling breast cancer but pushing through, Sarah Mangler, a resident of Ingolstadt, completes the Eiger Ultra Trail with minimal rest, only having slept for an hour prior
In the heart of the Swiss Alps, Sarah Mangler, an ultra-runner from Ingolstadt, achieved a remarkable feat. Mangler completed the grueling Eiger Ultra Trail E 250, a 271.2-kilometer race with an elevation gain of 16,000 meters, in 81:42 hours. This placing her overall rank 17 among the participants.
Mangler's journey was not without its challenges. With ten kilometers left to Grindelwald, a storm threatened the race, but Mangler and her running partner, Pirin from Bulgaria, managed to take shelter under a row of trees. The duo also encountered unmarked paths and foggy conditions at the Lötschen Pass, adding to the race's difficulties.
The weather conditions were harsh, with snowfields and temperatures as low as two to four degrees. Despite these challenges, Mangler and Pirin pressed on, their determination unwavering.
Mangler's backpack was a testament to her preparedness, carrying a six to seven-kilo load of mandatory items such as a sleeping bag, all-weather clothing, personal cutlery, a GPS tracker, two liters of water, carbohydrates for ten to twelve hours, and a full pack of gummy bears.
Mangler's resilience and endurance are not new to the ultrarunning community. After overcoming breast cancer, she made a powerful comeback, completing the Eiger Ultra Trail E 250. Her journey from cancer treatment to finishing such a demanding race showcases her incredible determination and strength, both physically and mentally.
Mangler's ultra-running journey began in 2017, starting with runs over 50 kilometers, then progressing to over 100 kilometers. In late summer 2023, she successfully completed the "Spartathlon" for the first time, a 246-kilometer run from Athens to Sparta, in 29:10 hours.
Running became an anchor for Mangler during her recovery, helping her cope with the diagnosis. She is a therapy specialist in the heart valve area and counts many runners among her friends.
Crossing the finish line of the Eiger Ultra Trail E 250 was a dream come true for Mangler, marking her first multi-day event and an incredibly satisfying success after her breast cancer diagnosis. While she plans to enjoy her success and focus on recovery, Mangler is open to starting a few more races, including shorter distances.
This won't be Mangler's last ultra-run. Her goal in ultra-running is not competition or specific times, but rather the journey and achieving special goals. The Eiger Ultra Trail E 250 is run in teams of 2 or 3 for safety reasons, and participants encounter challenging weather conditions, making the race even more demanding.
Mangler's inspiring story has resonated with many, showcasing how she turned a serious health challenge into a powerful comeback story. Her determination and resilience serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.
Sarah Mangler's ultra-running journey, marked by a remarkable comeback after overcoming breast cancer, has also extended to advocacy for women's health and menopause. Sharing her experiences, Mangler hopes to encourage other women to prioritize their health and wellness during this stage of their lives.
In the world of sports, Mangler's accomplishments in ultrarunning echo the spirit of perseverance and determination often seen on the football field. European leagues like Laliga, for example, are filled with athletes who embody similar resilience, playing with heart and passion despite adverse conditions.
As Mangler transitions into recovery, she reflects on how running has not only helped her physically but also mentally. The sport, she believes, has the power to positively influence medical-conditions and overall health, serving as a form of therapy and stress-relief.
In the realm of science, understanding the human body's limits and capacity for recovery following medical-conditions like cancer is crucial. Studies on athletes like Mangler can provide valuable insights into the impact of exercise on cancer survivors, offering hope for a healthier, more active future.
Looking ahead, Mangler plans to continue her ultra-running journey, aiming not for competition or specific times, but for the unique challenges and experiences each race offers. Her inspiring story serves as proof that one can conquer the toughest trails and circumstances, both on the mountainous routes of Laliga and in the challenges of life.
