Since 2003, this race has been considered the ultimate extreme test. The circuit combines the state-of-the-art Formula 1 Grand Prix track with the legendary Nordschleife, which Jackie Stewart once described as the “Green Hell”. There are 92 corners, 560 metres of elevation gain per lap and gradients of up to 17 per cent, and the race takes place day and night, in all weathers. To succeed here, you need more than just physical fitness; you also need strategy, precision, and unconditional trust in your team.
International team - one mission
Robby Boenicke (BUTTING Canada), Mario Kulow (Managing Director of BUTTING Anlagenbau in Schwedt), Marco Karig and Kai Zander (BUTTING Anlagenbau in Schwedt), Heike Hermann (CFO of BUTTING Group), Benjamin Mrohs (BUTTING Group), Marvin Ehrhardt (BUTTING CryoTech), Marcel Bartels (CEO Division Plant Construction of BUTTING Group) Eight riders from different locations and divisions, united by the goal of testing their limits as a team.
The race was run in relay mode, with each of the approximately 26.5-kilometre laps completed by one rider before the next took over. The team completed a total of 24 laps, with each rider completing three laps. In total, the team covered 626.4 kilometres and climbed 13,440 metres – that's 78.3 kilometres and climbed 1,680 metres per rider. And all without e-bikes, reaching top speeds of up to 100 km/h on the descents and tackling gruelling climbs such as the "Hohen Acht". These were hours filled with sweat, adrenaline, willpower and concentration.
“When you start the climb at three in the morning in the dark, only one thing matters: seeing the team at the finish line. That feeling carries you,' says Marvin Ehrhardt.
Tactics, commitment and mutual support
In the team camp, everything works together: clear agreements, quick equipment checks and brief moments to catch your breath. Everyone supports each other and takes responsibility. We all know that we can only win or lose together. “These 24 hours have shown how strong we can be together, whether on the racetrack or in our everyday work,” emphasises Heike Hermann.
The success factors that count at the Nürburgring are also crucial in international project business: precise planning, efficient processes, smooth cooperation between BUTTING locations, high performance under time pressure, and consistent goal orientation.
"The “Green Hell” has impressively demonstrated the power of determination, precision and trust when they work together perfectly. These values form the foundation on which we deliver the most challenging projects for our clients, seize opportunities and set new benchmarks in a dynamic environment.” – Marcel Bartels, CEO Division Plant Construction of the BUTTING Group.
BUTTING – more than pipes – for a better quality of life