Cycling classic Around Cologne”: Brave participants defy fate!

Cycling classic Around Cologne”: Brave participants defy fate!

The cycling classic “Around Cologne” took place on May 26, 2025, which attracted particular attention this year. There were 32 drivers from the Autour de Cologne team, a group made up of former heart transplant patients. The event not only combines the competitive spirit, but also highlights the life-changing power of sport and organ donation. This initiative is the result of a project started over a decade ago as part of “Campus Noster!” by Dr. Helge Knigge, a lecturer at the German Sport University Cologne (DSHS), was launched. Dr. Knigge looks after patients with cardiovascular diseases and promotes their return to sport.

Elmar Sprink, an outstanding member of the team, is an example of this return. After receiving his new heart in 2013, he has competed in over 150 competitions, including Ironman races. “Around Cologne” was special for Sprink as it was his first race after the transplant in his hometown. The value of participating in such events is reinforced by the team's motto, “Make up your mind,” which was created in collaboration with the Berlin Young Heroes Initiative.

Focus on organ donation and raising social awareness

The central concern of the project is to create social awareness of organ donation. Dr. Knigge emphasizes that people in Germany die every day because they are waiting for a donor organ. The event is intended to encourage and lower the hurdles for an active entry into the world of sport. This year, approximately two-thirds of the participants were DSHS students, supporting the initiative to increase the visibility of women in cycling.

Another inspiring example is Regina Richtmann, who was able to take part in “Around Cologne” for the first time after years of illness after receiving a heart transplant in 2022. Her experience illustrates how important such events are for personal recovery and integration into everyday life.

The role of the DSO and the importance of organ donation

The German Organ Transplantation Foundation (DSO) plays a crucial role in Germany when it comes to organ donation and transplantation. It is the coordination point for postmortem organ donation and supports medical professionals in various regions. The foundation is not only responsible for organizing the collaboration of all partners in organ removal, but also participates in national and international projects to promote transplant medicine.

Knigge's commitment shows how integration in sport and the call for organ donation can go hand in hand. He is convinced that events like “Around Cologne” not only make the courage of the participants visible, but also serve as a platform to sustainably raise awareness of organ donation.