Austrian Athlete Franz Müllner Sets World Record by Pulling Two 200-Ton Ships Across Wolfgangsee

Müllner, who has previously pulled trains, trucks, and buses, managed the 25-meter distance while carrying a harness weighing approximately 250 kilograms. Spectators gathered along the lakeshore watched in awe as the ships inched forward under his effort.

Charity and Community Impact

The event doubled as a fundraiser for Debra Austria, a nonprofit aiding children with epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic skin disorder. Donors were invited aboard the ships during the pull, with proceeds benefiting the organization’s EB-Haus Austria facility in Salzburg.

Tobias Pürcher, managing director of Salzburg AG Tourismus GmbH, which operates the ships, called the feat a "historic moment." "Zwei unserer Schiffe gleichzeitig in Bewegung durch reine menschliche Kraft zu erleben, ist auch für uns als Betreiber ein historischer Moment" ("Experiencing two of our ships moving simultaneously through pure human power is a historic moment for us as operators"), he said. "Wir sind stolz, Teil dieses außergewöhnlichen Projekts gewesen zu sein" ("We’re proud to have been part of this extraordinary project").

The record attempt, officially recognized by the Rekord-Institut für Deutschland, highlighted solidarity with the charity’s mission. The total donation amount will be announced on May 20.

A Career of Extreme Challenges

Müllner, known for his grueling physical feats, has built a reputation as one of Austria’s most formidable strength athletes. His previous records include pulling a 45-ton airplane, cementing his status in the extreme sports community.

The Wolfgangsee event, however, stood out for its dual focus on athleticism and philanthropy. Organizers emphasized that the spectacle was designed to inspire while supporting a vital cause.