Together for a good cause: Four Projektron employees at the 2026 Vitamin Well Women’s Run

The Women’s Run was first held on May 31, 1984, in Berlin’s Tiergarten and has grown from an initial 645 runners to a major event with around 10,000 participants. This was particularly evident this year, with more than 12,500 women and girls taking part in the Vitamin Well Women’s Run. The annual Women’s Run has a permanent place in Projektron’s sports calendar. Four Projektron employees took part this year, completing both the 5 km and 10 km courses and crossing the finish line with strong results.

Throughout the race, the atmosphere was fantastic thanks to the energetic cheering from friends and family. Under bright sunshine, the run took place from the Brandenburg Gate through the Tiergarten. Musical accompaniment by bands and drummers also contributed to the good mood.

In addition to the athletic success, the charitable cause also played an important role. Nearly one in two women will develop cancer during their lifetime. To show solidarity with those affected, €16,000 was donated to the Berlin Cancer Society through the race again this year. This allows women with cancer who are in financial need to be supported. The Berlin Cancer Society e.V. has been a charity partner of the Berlin Women’s Run for many years. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing counseling and support for the well-being of cancer patients.

Promoting the joy of exercise was also a central focus. After all, regular exercise not only contributes to a healthy lifestyle but also to a happy life. Furthermore, such a lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Kathrine Switzer and the Origins of the Berlin Women’s Run

The origins of the Berlin Women’s Run can be traced back, in part, to the American runner Kathrine Switzer. In 1967, she was the first woman to officially participate in the Boston Marathon with a race number. During the race, she was attacked by the race director, which caused a worldwide sensation. Nevertheless, she continued the race and successfully crossed the finish line.

In the years that followed, Switzer was deeply committed to gender equality in running and played a key role in getting the women’s marathon included in the Olympic program in 1984. Together with Horst Milde, she founded the first Women’s Run in Berlin that same year, laying the foundation for today’s traditional event.