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    RBR66212

    The Stairs

    With 779 steps and 60 landings, the Danube Tower staircase was once the scene of exciting staircase runs and sporting challenges. However, due to the operating licence, it is now only accessible in an emergency.

    During opening hours, the stairs may only be used for evacuation in the event of a fire - and only on the instructions of the fire brigade. So if you want to enjoy the view, you have to use the express lifts.

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    Donauturm Staircase Run

    2007

    Donauturm Staircase run

    The challenge over 779 steps, 60 platforms & 150 metres in altitude.

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    Premiere 1992

    On 3 October 1992, 28 women and 231 men dared to climb the steps of the Danube Tower. Winner Michael Korner climbed the 776 steps in 4:02 minutes. The first winner, triathlete Irene Hausladen, is still active in sport today.

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    Participant record 2003

    In 2003, the highest number of participants was reached with 389 runners - a milestone in the history of the Danube Tower Stair Run..

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    2004-2008

    New step count 2004

    The steps were recounted for the 40th anniversary of the Danube Tower: Since then, there have officially been 779 steps, 60 landings & 150 metres in altitude. All 10 steps were marked to provide orientation for runners.

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    Top athletes & amateur runners

    The participants started at 20-second intervals. The course record is 3:31.71 minutes. But it wasn't just best times that counted - for many, the goal of staying under seven hours was already a success!

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    Challenge & reward

    Running up the stairs is extremely demanding on the body. But whether professional or amateur runner - the exhaustion gave way to joy and the spectacular view over Vienna at the top of the tower.

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    Last staircase run 2008

    The Danube Tower was climbed for the last time in 2008. Winners: Matthias Jahn (3:36.70 min.) & Andrea Mayr (4:04.70 min.). The race was then moved to the Millennium Tower.

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    European Stair Racing Championship 2014

    The Danube Tower was part of the European Championships. The best stair runners in Europe as well as participants from America and Australia competed. Rolf Majcen was the third best Austrian, finishing 14th in 4:02 minutes.

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    On World COPD Day on 20 November 2019, Eberhard Jordan set an impressive example: Despite his illness, he climbed 779 steps up the Danube Tower - more than any COPD patient had ever done before.

    After months of training and a precise breathing and walking plan, he reached the top after 50 minutes. The challenge showed that great things are possible with courage and discipline!



    The Danube Tower was the venue for the European Stair Running Championships, where the best athletes in Europe competed with participants from America and Australia.

    Austrian Rolf Majcen came 14th with a time of 4:02 minutes, making him the third-best Austrian runner in this high-calibre competition.

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