Over the Gaberl and Into Support

Daily miles: 36.2 | Total miles: 15,175.14

My alarm rang early, but my body didn’t want to get up. I knew it would be a long day with quite a bit of elevation—going over the Gaberl Pass.

Still, I left the cozy bed, had a hot coffee from the machine outside my room, got ready, and stepped out around 6:30am. It was already light. And as always on days like this, I felt a bit nervous. Mountains have a way of asking more from me—physically and mentally.

I started running, hoping to find someone who could advise me on the route. There were two options, and I wanted to make the right choice. The first person I asked wasn’t sure, but soon after I stopped at the Stadtcafé Pötscher, where Johannes and Petra gave me helpful information—and even more than that, a warm and encouraging start into the day.

From there, I moved into the valley, where the long ascent began.

For the next 15 miles, it was mostly uphill. Around halfway, I passed through Salla, a small and quiet place along the climb. The higher I got, the more the weather shifted. For the last six miles to the top, it rained.

At the same time, the road filled with motorbikes, race cars, and old-timers—many in groups, racing up and over the pass. It made the climb feel even more intense. Pushing the buggy uphill in those conditions required focus. And when the mind is tired, that focus doesn’t come easily.

But step by step, I made it to the top.

Fog had crept in, reducing the views—but I was relieved to see a restaurant. A coffee felt necessary. Inside, it was warm and calm. I sat down, took a breath. Anneliese from the kitchen came out to say hello—she had passed me earlier on her way up to work. Another small, unexpected connection.

When I started the descent, it was still dark and cloudy—but within minutes, everything changed. The fog lifted, the sun came out, and suddenly the landscape opened up. Blue sky, soft clouds, mountains all around. It felt like a reward.

About halfway down, I heard thunder.

At first distant, then closer. Lightning followed, and then heavy drops of rain—within moments turning into a full downpour. I waited briefly under a roof near the bottom, but soon continued, completely soaked.

By the time I reached the flat, I was tired. Not just physically—mentally as well.

The road ahead was busy, no shoulder, constant traffic. Not easy conditions. Every step required effort. Those are the moments when motivation feels far away, and everything becomes very simple: just put one foot in front of the other.

What helped today was knowing that I would see my sister in Pöls. That thought stayed with me during those final miles. Sometimes, having support ahead makes all the difference. A few minutes before arriving, I called her—and she came out onto the road to meet me. That moment felt really good.

Claudia, the owner of the hotel, welcomed me warmly as well. Thank you.

Today was a demanding day—physically, mentally, emotionally. And I’m grateful not to have to carry everything alone right now.

Tomorrow brings more family time.

Thank you for checking in, Andrea