Beneath the grandstands of Trabrennbahn Mariendorf, a thrilling history unfolds. Here at Trabrennbahn Mariendorf, we stand on hallowed ground. This is a place where dreams are chased and legends are made.
Trabrennbahn Mariendorf opened in 1913. August Endell designed this horse racing complex in 1911 and 1912. The main entrance is located at the intersection of Kruckenbergstrasse and Hirzerweg. Its official address is Mariendorfer Damm 222.
Let me paint you a picture of its early days. Bruno Cassirer saved Trabrennbahn Mariendorf from bankruptcy in its first year. This Jewish publisher invested heavily in the facility. He remained chairman until 1933. He held positions in various trotting associations.
Trabrennbahn Mariendorf became a central attraction in Tempelhof. Racing continued even during World War II. Although several grandstands were damaged, races still occurred. The first post-war race in Berlin was held in Karlshorst in 1945. Racing resumed here at Trabrennbahn Mariendorf on July 3, 1946. The track experienced a resurgence in popularity. Prominent drivers like Eddy Freundt and Gerhard Krüger raced here in the 1960s.
The architectural structures are impressive. The open Kaiserlich-Endellsche Tribune dates back to 1913. The glazed Robinsontribüne was built in 1936. The Champions Teehaus was added in 1961. The five-story main grandstand with glass windows was completed in 1974. You can also see the Stallkasino and remaining stable buildings to the south. The entire complex is a protected monument in Berlin.
Trabrennbahn Mariendorf is unique among German racetracks. Races here almost always run clockwise. Only Karlshorst and Gelsenkirchen share this feature.
The German Derby is the highlight of the racing calendar. It occurs annually over seven days. The final event is on the second Sunday. It showcases the German Traber Derby.
The “Breeders Crown” is another significant event. It compares German trotting horses. Breeders, owners, and trainers can assess their horses’ performance in these national races. Since 2013, it has been held again at Trabrennbahn Mariendorf. The event was moved to the last week of September in 2015. The best German horses compete in races divided by age and gender.
Getting here is easy. Take the U6 subway to Alt-Mariendorf. Then, take bus lines M76 or 179. Get off at the Trabrennbahn stop on Mariendorfer Damm. Additional buses run from Alt-Mariendorf during major events.
In the 1990s, Trabrennbahn Mariendorf faced financial difficulties. Internet betting and relocation of stables contributed to the decline. To maintain operations, parts of the grounds were sold. The Rosenhof senior residence was built on a section to the north. A complete sale and relocation to Karlshorst was considered. Political opposition prevented this. The core property remained. An shopping center and residential buildings were constructed. Some of the old stables were preserved and renovated.
Ulrich Mommert is working to revitalize Trabrennbahn Mariendorf. Since 2014, visitor numbers have steadily increased.
So, as you stand here, imagine the thundering hooves. Picture the cheering crowds. Feel the excitement that has permeated Trabrennbahn Mariendorf for over a century. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of harness racing. Trabrennbahn Mariendorf remains a vibrant part of Berlin’s sporting heritage.