Frankfurt, May 1, 2026 — In the SPIE cosmos, sports play a major role. They bring together colleagues from the most diverse business areas, branches, and departments and create shared team moments that are fondly remembered even years later. On May 1, the bicycle took center stage. Over 80 participants started this year’s cycling race in Eschborn-Frankfurt wearing the blue SPIE jersey.
For SPIE AUTOMATION and the Industry Service & Wind business area, Moritz Tanzer, Michael Schmuck, and Christian Wonschik stood at the starting line in the ONE SPIE Team. The day began early in the morning at the Haus der Mode in Frankfurt, with a briefing, group photo, and distribution of starting materials. At the same time, this provided an opportunity to meet the other SPIE colleagues, some of whom were participating for the first time.
Between Challenge and Euphoria
With around 12,000 starters, Eschborn–Frankfurt is one of the largest cycling races in Germany. The route covering 96 kilometers and around 1,300 meters of elevation requires not only fitness but also perseverance. The fact that participants started from different blocks due to different performance groups did not diminish the shared spirit. Whenever you saw the blue SPIE jersey ahead or behind you, there was motivation and support.
For the SPIE AUTOMATION colleagues, the race was a complete success. Moritz was able to significantly improve compared to the previous year and crossed the finish line accordingly satisfied. Michael celebrated a very special premiere: his first cycling race ever. Michael’s performance on the challenging route was all the more impressive: his average speed was clearly above his own expectations. A great achievement. Christian was also able to improve his personal time and secured 1st place within the ONE SPIE Team with a strong 2:43:03 hours and an average of over 35 km/h.
What Really Counts in the End
As wonderful as sporting successes are—what sticks are mainly the moments afterward. Arriving at the finish line. The first deep breath. The relief after the final kilometers. And the joy when everyone gradually reunites. Over pizza and drinks, SPIE colleagues from the most diverse areas engaged in conversation, exchanged experiences about the race, and made new connections. It was precisely this mix of sporting challenge, team spirit, and personal exchange that made the cycling classic a special experience for many.
