más 5k - Berlin’s Fastest Loop: Interview with Race Director Lukas Motschmann

In a city where running is often overshadowed by big-name marathons and mainstream events, más independent is carving out space for something different — something deeper. We spoke with Lukas Motschmann (Race Director of más 5k), to understand how más independent is reimagining the culture of running in Berlin and beyond. With projects like the más 5k - Berlin’s Fastest Loop celebrated last Wednesday, they’re not only honouring the speed and dedication of local crew runners but also breaking down barriers between community and elite racing.

What is más independent?

más independent is both a digital and analog initiative that aims to give running the recognition it truly deserves - by showcasing its beauty, depth, and discipline, and by making the sport as exciting and engaging as possible for both athletes and spectators.

What is the más 5k?

The más 5k is our tribute to fast running in Berlin. Our goal is to spotlight the city’s fastest crew runners and offer them a chance to line up alongside international elite athletes.

We’re working to bridge the gap between elite and crew running - challenging the stereotypes that crews are only about fun and vibes, and that elite runners are somehow untouchable. In truth, many crew runners train just as hard: they get their miles in before or after work, give up vacations for races and training camps, and are deeply committed to the sport. Some simply started too late to turn pro; others never had the luxury to take the leap. We believe they deserve their shot to race with the best - at least once a year - to celebrate that dedication.

Why Berlin?

As a young runner, I used to dream of organizing a fast road race in my small hometown, about 90 minutes from Berlin. There was a long, flat stretch of road through scenic landscapes, ending at a beautiful hotel - the perfect setup. I always wanted to create short, fast road races instead of just marathons.

Now, to host an event with a finishing stretch from the Victory Column to the Brandenburg Gate - to me, perhaps the most iconic finish in the world. It is beyond anything I imagined. I’m incredibly grateful to our partner @sctfevents for helping turn that dream into reality.

What’s next for más independent?

Next, we’re heading to the Zugspitz Ultra together with Salomon to dive deeper into the trail running scene. After that, we’ll close out the road season in Hamburg at the Hella Half.

We’re also excited for track season to kick off again - how great is it that we can follow and celebrate so many sides of this sport year-round?

A huge thank you to everyone who supports más. We’re constantly inspired by how talented, passionate, and diverse the running community is.

más 5k - Berlin's Fastest Loop Ranking

The inaugural edition of the más 5k – Berlin’s Fastest Loop delivered an unforgettable evening of speed, spirit, and standout performances on the city’s fastest circuit

Women’s Top 3 Finishers

• 🇫🇷 Margaux Sieracki | Adidas France - 00:16:12
• 🇩🇪 Lara Kiene | LG Hamm - 00:16:17
• 🇩🇪 Kiara Nahen | LG Paderborn - 00:16:20

Men’s Top 3 Finishers

• 🇩🇪 Johannes Motschmann | Marathon Team Berlin - 00:14:04
• 🇩🇪 Marc Tortell | Athletics Team Karen - 00:14:13
• 🇬🇧 Liam Dee | GB / Ghouls n Goblins TC - 00:14:16

A huge congratulations to all the runners who crossed that finish line. Being selected to participate in this debut edition is a triumph in itself—each stride contributed to the momentum of a race that’s bound to become a staple in the European running calendar.

See you soon!