The Runner Chronicles

Meet Bene Detsch, a passionate and dedicated runner from Germany and a proud member of the Salomon team. Bene’s journey into running began in 2020, a time when many were finding new ways to stay active and connected. What started as a simple step into the world of running quickly turned into a full-blown passion, as Bene, in his own words, "got stuck in doing races."
Today, Bene’s versatility as a runner truly sets him apart. Whether he’s pounding the pavement on the track, pushing his limits in competitive races, or embracing the serenity and challenge of rugged mountain trails, Bene approaches each run with the same enthusiasm and determination. His ability to adapt and excel in various running environments showcases not only his physical talent but also his love for the sport.
Intrigued by his passion and rapid involvement in the sport, we wanted to learn more about his path into running, what motivated him to start, and how his life has transformed since lacing up his first pair of running shoes. Bene’s story offers an inspiring look at the joy and challenges of discovering a new passion and the unexpected ways it can shape your life.

*Image:* *Jan Lenfert*

Tell us something about who you are and how your running journey started.

Hi, I’m Bene, a 20-year-old German trail runner living in Innsbruck, in the heart of the Alps. Running hasn’t always been my passion. A few years ago, before COVID, my life was completely different. My body felt more like a bag of potatoes, and I weighed over 120 kg. The only sport I played was football with my friends, but that stopped when COVID restrictions came into effect.

I asked myself, What should I do? There was no school, no friends around, and I felt terrible in my body. So, I just started running. At first, it was a small loop around my hometown, about 4 km. Of course, in the beginning, it felt more like a fight than fun, but with every run, I felt better and fitter. Soon, I increased the distance to 7, 8, or even 10 km. My goal was to run every other day and change my diet. Since then, I’ve been living as a vegetarian. On my non-running days, I hiked to a small hut above the village or did strength training in my garden.

The weight started coming off quickly. Over 1.5 years, I lost more than 40 kg. As I got lighter and fitter, running became more fun. One day, I decided to try running up to the hut I usually hiked to. It’s still one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I got through it—with a few hiking breaks, of course. By 2022, I was fit enough to enter my first trail race: a local event with 22 km and 1,300 vertical meters. It was amazing. That race was the moment I realized I was hooked on running, especially trail running. I wanted more races, but since I was only 17 at the time, many had an age limit of 18. So, I focused on running flat half-marathons.

How is your experience being a part of the Salomon Running Team?

A really good friend of mine got a job at Salomon and became responsible for the German Salomon Running Team. In November 2022, he asked me if I wanted to join the team as a Running Ambassador. He saw me as a young runner with potential, and that was what Salomon was interested in. Should I deny that I got the sponsorship partly through contacts? No! But it wasn’t just that. Maybe some people think so, but they don’t know about the work and effort I’ve put into my running journey.

Now, in 2025, I’m entering my third year as a Salomon runner. From the beginning, the team felt like a family. Everyone is so nice, and I love catching up with them at races or team events. Since the beginning, I’ve been the youngest on the team, and I’ve learned so much from my teammates. Everyone shares their experiences and is always ready with advice. The team spirit is incredible—everyone cheers for each other, helps out at aid stations, or creates content together. I’m already looking forward to seeing them again when the season starts.

*Image: Stefan Götschl*
*Instagram: Bene_detsch*

“I’ve learned not to care too much about what others think. Focusing on my goals and well-being has brought the right people into my life.”

You are making a lot of miles, how do you keep your mind in the right place while making those miles?

Besides running, I love being on my bike or skis. But long sessions can get boring sometimes. Usually, I just think a lot while I’m outside—about my goals, life in general, or the future. Running is the best way for me to reflect. Most of the time, my mind clears up as soon as I start moving.

Of course, there are days when I don’t want to run, but I always know I’ll feel better afterward. I’m a big fan of listening to music while I run. Depending on the session, I have different playlists for long runs, speed work, or race prep. Music keeps me focused and motivated, especially since I do a lot of my training alone. That focus is also key on race days. I’m preparing for my first marathon-distance races in 2025 by training long, easy sessions that help me strengthen both my body and my mind to stay focused for hours.

You have been traveling a lot this year.

That’s true! At the beginning of 2024, after finishing my apprenticeship, I started traveling to the other side of the world. My first stop was New Zealand, where I spent two months exploring the South Island. The landscape there is breathtaking, and I fell in love with it the moment I stepped off the plane. Running played a big role during my travels. It helped me explore my surroundings and discover new areas. I think running is the best way to discover a place. It’s also a great way to connect with people. In Queenstown, for example, I joined the local running club “Run Queenstown” and met so many great people. I’m still in touch with some of them and can’t wait to meet them again.

The running culture in New Zealand is different from what I’m used to in Europe. While they have races and competitions, running in New Zealand is more about community and exploration. In Europe, trail running often feels more competitive. During my time in New Zealand, I participated in a local race called the Motatapu. The atmosphere was amazing, and everyone was so kind and welcoming. After New Zealand, I flew to Australia. I ran through Sydney, explored Tasmania’s trails, and even competed in the UTMB Australia in the Blue Mountains. It was tough, with a long downhill in the beginning followed by brutal stair climbs, but it was a great experience. This trip was unforgettable. I’m so thankful for the places I explored, the experiences I made, and the people I met. I’ll definitely return to “Down Under” one day.

You have been running since 2020, how has your life changed since then?

Running has transformed not just my body, but also my mindset and attitude. It’s taught me discipline, which now carries over to other areas of my life, like studying and working. My overall well-being has improved, and I’ve become much more confident. In the last year, I moved to Innsbruck to focus on sports and start university. The city has everything I need: high peaks, a strong sports community, and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded people. It wasn’t hard to make connections since I already knew people through running and racing.

Some friendships from home have changed, though. In Southern Germany and Austria, the drinking culture is big. I still enjoy a beer or a party, but I stopped drinking excessively every weekend, and that didn’t sit well with everyone. Some people misunderstood these changes and thinking I’d become arrogant or selfish. I’ve learned not to care too much about what others think. Focusing on my goals and well-being has brought the right people into my life.

What is a must have for every runner on the longer runs?

For me, there are two essentials. First, the right gear: comfortable shoes, a good running vest, poles, and proper nutrition. These are my go-to items for running in the Alps. Second, mental and physical preparation is key. Before a long run, I take 10 minutes to do some mobility exercises to warm up my muscles and ankles—they’ll thank you for it later! A must-do for me is leaving no trace. Look around and also pick up trash left by others. Our nature is the most beautiful thing, so we should take care of it.