Let's get started and run - for everyone aged 3-6! Together with Johann Strauss 2025 Wien, we created a category for the youngest for the first time. 200 metres dressed up or made up as a bat.

The occasion: The VCM is celebrating the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss with the City of Vienna. The ‘Fledermaus’ - the 'bat' is known to be the Waltz King's top operetta. 5 April is exactly the day of its premiere.

On the Ringstrasse in front of the Burgtheater, along the Rathauspark towards Parliament and back again: the children usually ran this route accompanied by a parent. The joy of movement and enthusiasm for running fluttered across the ring road to the VCM finish line. A start that made hearts beat faster.

Cuddly bat as a reward

The successful young runners received a plush bat from Johann Strauss 2025 Vienna at the finish line as a fluttering memento of this special running experience.

Many were at the start wearing masks, capes, costumes or make-up. There was also the opportunity for bat styling on site.

The run was not timed. The focus was on experiencing the atmosphere and the sporting activity.

The VCM and Johann Strauss 2025 Vienna are celebrating a ‘Marathon in Strauss and Braus’ together. On Sunday, the waltz world record attempt will take place at 8.35 am before the start. 200 ‘Johann Strausses’ will run the marathon in a specially designed jersey in a separate classification.