Hosting the Domspringen Wesel team for the third time – and this time the world-class names are coming
There are moments when an entire town holds its breath. When a pole vaulter catapults himself to dizzying heights, the bar trembles – and stays up – then collective cheers erupt on the Großer Markt in Wesel. That is precisely what makes the Domspringen one of the most special sporting events in the Lower Rhine region.
On 1 September 2026, against the impressive backdrop of Willibrordi Cathedral, the Großer Markt will be transformed for the fourth time into a stage for top-class international sport – with free admission for everyone.
World silver medallist, last year’s winner and an exceptional 15-year-old talent
This year’s line-up is sure to turn heads. Ernest Obiena from the Philippines is the top favourite – 2023 World Championship silver medallist, three-time Asian champion, fourth at the 2024 Olympics and, with a personal best of 6.00m, one of the few jumpers in the world to have cleared this magical mark. He is a national hero in his home country. In Wesel, he will take to the Großer Markt.
Among those waiting to challenge him is Robin Emig, last year’s winner. The German set a new meeting record of 5.76m at the last Domspringen and is keen to defend it this year – his personal best of 5.92m makes this seem entirely realistic. Also taking part is his French training partner Ethan Cormont, who has already cleared 5.80m in 2026. Cole Walsh and 24-year-old Hunter Garretson are travelling from the USA, both with a personal best of 5.83m.
Representing Germany are Gillian Ladwig (last year’s German champion and European Championship participant), Fabio Wünsche (current German runner-up) and Hendrik Hohmann (German U23 runner-up).
And in the supporting programme? The 15-year-old Dane Alvin Eskilsen is set to amaze: with a personal best of 5.00 metres, numerous junior records and a third-place finish at the Nordic Under-20 Championships, he is regarded as one of the greatest talents in the world.
Our hotel as a home for world-class athletes
We are proud to be the official team hotel for Domspringen Wesel for the third year running. A total of ten athletes are staying with us at the Waldhotel Tannenhäuschen for three days – and are using the time to prepare for the competition in the best possible way with wellness and fitness activities.
The fact that top athletes feel at home here is not something we take for granted – it is a mark of trust that delights us anew every year. Because even though taking time to unwind and connecting with nature are part of our DNA, we know what it means to give the body and mind exactly the rest they need to achieve something extraordinary.
Sport, the city and a special feeling
The Domspringen is more than just a competition. It is a festival for Wesel – a moment when sport, community and the unique atmosphere of the Hanseatic city come together. Organiser Kai Meesters sums it up: “On the last day of the school holidays, the Großer Markt is transformed into a unique sporting arena, and I expect the spectators to turn the square into a cauldron of excitement once again.”
We’re delighted to be helping to write another small chapter of this history this year – and to offer our guests from all over the world the very best that the Tannenhäuschen has to offer.
For those wishing to attend on 1 September: the U20 youth competition begins at 2.00 pm, whilst the main competition starts at 5.15 pm. Admission is free.
You can find all the information about the event at domspringen-wesel.de.
