41st Weinsberg Weibertreulauf

Run with Historical Background

The Weinsberg Weibertreulauf is one of the most traditional sporting events in the Heilbronn district (state of Baden-Württemberg). In 2026, the 41st edition will be held. The organizer is the Athletics department of TSV 1866 Weinsberg. The venue and start/finish line is the Weibertreuhalle at Rossäckerstraße 19.

The Legend of the "Loyal Women"

The name of the race goes back to one of the most beautiful South German legends: In the year 1140, King Konrad III besieged Weibertreu Castle in Weinsberg – then owned by the Welf family, who opposed the Hohenstaufen royal power. Konrad III threatened the destruction of the fortress but granted the women of the besieged free passage with what they could carry. When the women left the castle, they carried their husbands on their shoulders. Impressed by the loyalty and cunning of the women, Konrad III honored the promise and spared the men. This gave rise to the epithet "Burg Weibertreu" – and in 1985, the Volksfest was launched to commemorate this memorable event.

Three Main Distances Plus Youth Race

• Half Marathon (21.1 km) — Main distance for ambitious runners, €28 entry fee
• 10 km — popular middle distance, €18
• 5 km — for returning runners and hobby runners, €10
• Youth Race (1.5 km) — for children and teenagers, €5
• Sprint (660 m) — for the youngest runners, €5

The Course

The courses lead on mostly paved paths along roads and dirt tracks through recreational areas, vineyards, and forests around Weinsberg. Start and finish are at the Weibertreuhalle. The course is considered scenically attractive, with views of Weibertreu Castle and the surrounding vineyards. As the race takes place in March, it is ideal as a season opener after winter.

A Classic Volksfest (Public Festival)

The Weibertreulauf has the character of a classic Southern German Volksfest: organized by volunteers, with club catering in the Weibertreuhalle, well-stocked aid stations along the route, and a warm, family atmosphere. Many families come with multiple generations – parents run the half marathon, children the sprint, grandparents cheer from the sidelines.

Weinsberg — Wine Town with a Castle

The town of Weinsberg (~12,000 inhabitants) is located about 15 km east of Heilbronn in wine country. Characteristic features are the vineyards on the slopes around the town, the historic market square, and the famous Weibertreu Castle, which has towered over the town since the 12th century. Today, the castle is a popular excursion destination with a restaurant and viewing terrace – a visit after the run is recommended.