Swiss Top Evvents 2019

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EDITORIAL

DEAR READERS, Armed with a willingness to innovate, with high expectations when it comes to quality, and with an ability to manoeuvre creative chaos and the uncertainties that come with breaking new ground, Swiss Top Events organisers pursue bold visions. They cut their own paths, undauntedly, and never let obstacles stop them on their journeys to explore brilliant ideas. They treat risks as challenges, as opportunities, as sources of inspiration.

Swiss Top Events and their protagonists have fascinating stories to tell. We would like to introduce you to some of them in this magazine.

There is the Superar camp, for instance, a new project initiated by the Lucerne Festival to promote young musicians: 130 children from six countries and of 26 nationalities meet to rehearse together – during seven hours every day. And while jazz has been given a facelift in Montreux, films will once again go far beyond walking the red carpet at the Locarno Festival.

Deep roots help events grow tall. Yves Mittaz, mastermind behind the Omega European Masters, looks back on 37 years of organising one of the world’s most successful golf tournaments. And Weltklasse Zürich, the most prestigious gathering of superstars of athletics revives fond memories of its 90-year-long history of wowing fans at Letzigrund Stadium and around the world.

Find out about Beat Feuz’ latest experience at the Lauberhorn Ski World Cup races and about his love-hate relationship with Wengen’s downhill course. Take a stroll through the spectacular Art Basel show, and experience the extraordinary White Turf international horse races on a frozen Lake St. Moritz.

Swiss Top Events combine a series of eight very different events. Their creators, however, are all cast in the same mould. And their creativity, passion, and positivity are palpable at every event. We hope you enjoy their fascinating reports, the glances behind the scenes, the walks down memory lane.

Richard Dillier

Foto Credit: Eva Kohler

President

Michael Häfliger Vice President

Christoph Joho Member of the Board

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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CONTENT

ART BASEL

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THE FEMININE FRINGE OF ART BASEL 2018 The brilliant works of shown in Basel mirror the political, social, and psychological throes our world is currently in.

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

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A NEW HOME FOR ALL THINGS JAZZ For its 52nd edition, the Montreux Jazz Festival has given jazz a new home. The House of Jazz is the new the welcoming backdrop to intimate Club concerts for a larger audience.

LOCARNO FESTIVAL

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A FESTIVAL THAT CELEBRATES FREEDOM In the year following its 70th anniversary, the Locarno Festival continued its tradition of discovering and sharing the magic of cinema.

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

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WHEN BEETHOVEN & CO. INSPIRE TODAY’S TALENTS Superar Suisse enables children to practise their instruments, learn working in teams, and assume responsibility.

The project made its first guest appearance at the 2018 Lucerne Festival.

07 EDITORIAL 10 OVERVIEW SWISS TOP EVENTS 2019 12 BIG NUMBERS 82 IMPRESSUM

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CONTENT

WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

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LETZIGRUND - HOME STADIUM OF GLOBAL ATHLETIC STARS SINCE 1928 “Unparalleled,” people say when asked about the world famous atmosphere at Weltklasse Zürich. “Unlike any other.”

OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS CRANS-MONTANA

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YVES MITTAZ, DIRECTOR OF GOLF IN CRANS-MONTANA The Canton of Valais has the highest peaks in the Swiss Alps and in the middle of these mountains the Canton also hosts Switzerland's peak golf event - the Omega European Masters in Crans-Montana.

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

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"YOU JUST HAVE TO LOVE LAUBERHORN MOUNTAIN" When Beat Feuz (31) scorches down Lauberhorn mountain, it looks gentle in spite of the elemental force of speeds up to 160 km/h. No other athlete handles the course with such virtuosity.

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

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80TH ST. MORITZ GRAND PRIX With an overall prize money of 450,000 Swiss francs, White Turf St. Moritz awards more money than any other Swiss horse racing event.

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

50 SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES 52 SWITZERLAND TOURISM

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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ALL EVENTS 13 - 16 JUNE 2019 ART BASEL The New York Times dubbed it the “Art Olympics”, Vogue called it “the most beautiful temporary museum in the world”, the Parisian daily Le Monde hailed it as “the best in the world”, and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung considered it “art at its best”. Art Basel, the premier international art show, attracts and inspires art lovers from across the globe.

28 JUNE - 13 JULY 2019 MONTREUX JA Z Z FESTIVAL Founded in 1967, the Montreux Jazz Festival has become an unmissable event for music fans from around the world. Its stages have been graced by all of music’s greats, including Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Radiohead, David Bowie, and Prince. While jazz constitutes the festival’s heart and soul, many other styles of music were quickly integrated, and the word on the street is that jazz has had a facelift in Montreux.

29 AUGUST - 1 SEPTEMBER 2019

18 - 20 JANUARY 2019

OMEGA EUROPE AN MASTERS

INTERNATIONAL L AUBERHORN R ACES

The Omega European Masters in Crans-Montana is known for its

For a few days every year, Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau take a back

unparalleled atmosphere. For many years, the tournament has held a

seat. The Lauberhorn provides the stage for the world's longest

special place in the European competition calendar. Yves Mittaz has

downhill races. No other course has generated as many tales of

has served as its organiser for 37 years. We met him and talked about

success, chagrin, or downright disaster. Each section of the 4,480-

this highly spirited event, which is also famous for its hospitality,

metre piste has its own tale to tell. Find out how alpine ski racer Beat

beautiful location, and astounding views.

Feuz fared in the Ski World Cup Lauberhorn in Wengen, an event which draws more than 55,000 enthusiastic spectators each year.

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SWISS TOP EVENTS

29 AUGUST 2019 WELTKLASSE ZURICH Weltklasse Zürich is referred to as the “Olympic Games in one night” with good reason. Every year, the world’s best track and field athletes line up to shine in front of the knowledgeable Zurich crowd at Letzigrund Stadium. So far, a total of 25 world records have been set at the legendary meeting.

SUMMER FESTIVAL, 16 AUGUST - 15 SEPTEMBER 2019 LUCERNE FESTIVAL The success story of the Lucerne Festival began in 1938, when Arturo Toscanini conducted a gala concert in the garden of Wagner’s villa in Tribschen. Every year in summer, late autumn, and at Easter time, the world’s leading orchestras, conductors, and soloists gather in one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. The concert hall of the KKL Luzern, designed by Jean Nouvel and famous for its acoustics, opened in 1998. This year, we visited the new Superar orchestra camp, a fringe event of Lucerne Festival, which involves seven hours of rehearsals every day with 130 children of 26 nationalities and from six countries.

3 | 10 | 17 FEBRUARY 2019

7 - 17 AUGUST 2019 THE LOCARNO FESTIVAL

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

Throughout its 71-year history, the Locarno Festival has occupied

More than 35,000 spectators gather on St. Moritz' frozen lake during

a unique position in the landscape of major film festivals. Every

three racing Sundays in February to witness spectacular events in

August, the Swiss-Italian town of Locarno becomes the world

most exceptional surroundings and against the magnificent back-

capital of auteur cinema for eleven days. Locarno's programme is

drop of the Engadine mountains. Every year, international trainers,

extraordinary, eclectic, and surprising, and its fans play an essential

jockeys, and thoroughbred horses travel from all over Europe, much

role in it. Up to 8,000 filmgoers fill the famous Piazza Grande every

to the delight of visitors from all around the world. Together they

night.

create a fantastic atmosphere and a thrilling spectacle.

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BIG NUMBERS Swiss Top Events are beacons of Swiss cultural, musical, and sporting events. They have evolved historically, they are locally anchored yet internationally renowned. Their quality standards are unparalleled. These impressive facts and figures about them illustrate their size, importance, and well-earned fame.

In total, the eight Swiss Top Events attract more than 750,000 visitors from Switzerland and all over the world, accredit more than 5,000 journalists, and they generate around 200 million Swiss francs in added value each year.

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GALLERIES FROM 35 COUNTRIES are present during the 2018 Art Basel.

Art Basel

1,500

917

TONS OF MATERIAL HAVE TO BE TRANSPORTED BY TRAIN TO WENGEN AND THEN BACK DOWN TO THE VALLEY.

JOURNALISTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD ATTENDED THE LOCARNO FESTIVAL IN 2018.

International Lauberhorn Races

Locarno Festival

100,000 SCREWS,

1,500 kg

OF PAINT,

EXTENSION CABLES, AND

15 km OF ELECTRICAL

43 km

ARE USED EACH YEAR. Montreux Jazz Festival 12

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

OF DUCT TAPE

BIG NUMBERS

SURFACE OF LAKE ST. MORITZ prepared to create the race track and event area:

2

130,000 m White Turf

SINCE THE TURN OF THE CENTURY, the Lucerne Festival has staged the PREMIERES OF

239 WORKS.

2,084

SKI SOCKS ARE REQUIRED TO KEEP VOLUNTEERS' FEET WARM ON EACH RACE DAY.

International Lauberhorn Races

Lucerne Festival

2,924 HOURS

IN 2017, A TOTAL OF WERE BROADCASTED AROUND THE WORLD, from South America, to Asia, North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia.

Omega European Masters

155,000 VISITORS

2,500 VIP

attended the Locarno Festival 2018.

GUESTS, 1,500 OVERNIGHT STAYS, 600 VOLUNTEERS.

Locarno Festival

Weltklasse Zurich SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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THE FEMININE FRINGE OF ART BASEL 2018 The brilliant works of shown in Basel mirror the political, social, and psychological throes our world is currently in.

T E X T: G i g i K r a cht | P I CT U R E S : A n dr é H e n g s t , R o n A m s t u t z

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ART BASEL

Art is a formidable power that simply cannot be placed on a

died in 1992. Mitchell’s painting “Composition 1969", an oil on

pedestal. It mirrors life! Art created by women artists erupted

canvas piece measuring 195 x 130 centimetres, was sold by

from the most unexpected booths at the 49th edition of Art

Hauser & Wirth for 14 million US dollars within minutes of the

Basel last June. Women artists are finally being heralded for

event's opening and was no longer on view. The piece was bur-

excellence. Whispers centred on a painting created by an

sting with dripping, coagulating, exploding colour. Sharp cuts of

American abstract expressionist painter, Joan Mitchell. Born

orange marigolds, yellow blooms and florets, and wet patches of

in Chicago in 1925, she lived half her life in France where she

olive greens seemed to create a symphony, an ocular bouquet!

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ART BASEL

Joan Mitchell herself said, “Abstract is not a style. I simply want

characterised by austere or steely grids and singularly defined lines.

to make a surface work.” Indeed, not much of a talker, she

Martin’s paintings negotiate the confines of structure and space,

allowed her work to speak for her. The emotions she created

precise draftsmanship and the metaphysical. They seem reflective,

in her works hit viewers like a blast of heat from a furnace. meditative, and they provoke viewers to contemplate the unforeMitchell is regarded as the foremost female American abstrac-

seen in our universe. Martin said, "Beauty is the mystery of life. It is

tionist of her era. She has since been the subject of numerous

not in the eyes, it is in the mind. In our mind, there is awareness of

museum exhibitions.

perfection. My paintings are not about what is seen. They are about

Pace Gallery is a leading contemporary art gallery representing many international artists and estates of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

Today, Pace operates from ten locations

«BEAUTY IS THE MYSTERY OF LIFE. IT IS NOT IN THE EYES, IT IS IN THE MIND.»

what is known forever in the mind”. It came as no surprise that various pieces of her works were available at Art Basel.

Kiki Smith, 64, is a German-born American artist, who is recogni-

worldwide. The market for contemporary art has never been stronger for women artists than at the present

sed for her multidisciplinary art wherein she explores the human

moment. Agnes Martin and Kiki Smith, two of Pace's artists, were fea-

condition and topics, including sex, birth, mortality, regeneration,

tured at Art Basel 2018, and their works sold at the event.

gender, politics, as well as chemistry between spirituality and the

Agnes Martin was born in Macklin, Saskatchewan (Canada) in 1912.

highlights aspects of AIDS and gender, whilst her most recent works

She passed away at the age of 92 in Taos, New Mexico. Often referred

depict our connection with nature. Her expansive creativity manifests

to as a Minimalist, Martin considered herself an Abstract Expressionist

in sculpture, glassmaking, printmaking, watercolour, photography,

deriving stimulus from Mark Rothko and Ad Reinhardt. Her pain-

and textiles.

natural world. Her figurative works of the late 1980s and early 1990s

tings were essays in indiscretion on inwardness and utter silence,

Louise Bourgeois

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A SWISS TOP EVENT 29 AUGUST 2019

Partners of Swiss Top Events:

© Joan Mitchell Foundation

Joan Mitchell | Composition 1969

Carmen Herrera | Angulo Rojo

Drawn to the logic of repetition in narratives and symbolic represen-

Having reached her artistic pinnacle at the ripe age of 103 in 2018,

tations, much of Smith’s work is inspired by the visual culture of the

Cuban-American Carmen Herrera exhibited her red acrylic A-shaped

past, spanning scientific anatomical renderings from the 19th century

aluminium sculpture “Angulo Rojo, 2018" a fresh armature that was

to images of relics, memento mori folklore, mythology, Byzantine

received with tremendous acclaim at Art Basel’s Unlimited. The

iconography, and medieval altar pieces. The piece that was sold at Art

three-dimensional high octane piece echos both dynamism and

Basel titled “Northern Sky” was conceived in bronze and shows seven

reflective solidity. Herrera took art lessons from the age of eight

stars of varying sizes. In retrospect, Smith has had solo exhibitions in

years. In 1938, she continued her architectural education which

more than 25 museums around the world.

sparked her love affair with straight lines. She then moved from Cuba to Paris, and to New York. Her work was influenced by

Visual artist, Pipilotti Rist was born in the Swiss Rhine Valley in

Bauhaus and Russian Suprematism. Throughout most of her life,

1962. People have called her Pipilotti for a long time - a nod to

Herrera faced rejection from the art world largely due to her gender.

Astrid Lindgren’s character Pippi Longstocking. She is best known

She remained fully dedicated to her art and continued working

for her experiental video and installation art that often include self-

without recognition until late in her life. The key to understanding

portraits and singing. Her work is often described as surreal, inti-

Carmen Herrera’s creations lies in its bold simplicity. In 2017, the

mate, abstract art with a focus on the female body. Since 2004,

Whitney Museum paid tribute to her with a big retrospective.

Rist has lived in Zurich, Switzerland. Over the past thirty years, she has gained international recognition as a pioneer of video art and multimedia installations. Rist’s enthralling creations introduce viewers to spectacularly tinged kaleidoscopic projections that synchronise the natural world with the technological sublime. The artist's latest video installation, “Your Eye Fluid” sold at Art Basel for 175,000 US dollars.

French-born Louise Bourgeois is one of the most significant artists of all times and is widely known for her monumental sculptures and installations. Bourgeois was a prolific painter and printmaker , a trade she learned from her parents. Her compositions were influenced by traumatic events experienced as a child, caused by her father’s infidelity. The popular “Spider” first appeared in 1940 and symbolised her mother who, like a spider, was a weaver. Spiders eat mosquitos and are friendly, just like her mother was. “Spider Home” which was sold at Art Basel was made in 2002 and was composed of two spiders and a web with a fly trapped in silken threads.

We can, as modern day critics, only speculate on the deep sense

© Pipilotti Rist

of pain that Bourgeois felt. Her works are collected worldwide and can be admired in many retrospectives.

Pipilotti Rist | Your Eye Fluid 2018

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SIDE STORIES ART BASEL

UNLIMITED Art Basel's unique platform for large-scale projects offers galleries an opportunity to showcase monumental installations, sculptures, video projections, wall paintings, photographic series, and performance art that transcend the traditional art fair stand.

Curated for the seventh year by Gianni Jetzer, curator at large at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington D.C., Unlimited presents both historical and contemporary works, celebrating renowned masters as well as emerging artists.

PARCOURS Reflecting on the political potential of storytelling, the 2018 edition of Parcours titled "Telling Stories for the Future" featured 23 site-specific artworks across Basel's historic old town. Curated for the third consecutive year by Samuel Leuenberger, Director of and curator for SALTS in Birsfelden, Switzerland, the exhibition compassed presentations in locations that opened exclusively for Parcours as well as collaborations with Basel’s museums, encouraging alternative alternative encounters with the city.

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SIDE STORIES ART BASEL

STATEMENTS Showcasing 18 solo presentations by exciting young international galleries, Statements offers visitors and collectors an opportunity to discover quality work by emerging artists. Each year, up to two outstanding artists are awarded the Baloise Art Prize.

FILM Consisting of 16 film and video works presented by the show’s participating galleries, Art Basel’s 2018 programme of films was curated by Cairo-based film curator Maxa Zoller for the fourth time. The programme sought to attribute new meanings to old filmmaking footage and brought together leading artists from across the world, with a strong focus on South Africa.

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

A NEW HOME FOR ALL THINGS JAZZ For its 52nd edition, the Montreux Jazz Festival has given jazz a new home. The House of Jazz is the new welcoming backdrop to intimate Club concerts for a larger audience.

T E X T: A l exa n dr e C a p o r a l | P I CT U R E S : FFJM - Daniel Balmat, Marc Ducrest, Lionel Flusin

Jazz used to have its own hall, now it has an entire house. Inaugu-

workshops, Talent Awards performances and energetic jam sessi-

rated in 2013, the Montreux Jazz Club has taken up a new residence

ons on La Coupole’s free stage beneath its glass dome. The Belle

at the Petit Palais, opposite the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. For

Epoque architecture of the new House of Jazz provided a perfect

the duration of 16 festival days, the building is being transformed

setting for all these activities and offered a range of experiences,

into a brand-new sanctuary for all things jazz, blues, and soul. In

turning the spotlight on a new, striking face of jazz every day and

addition to the concerts at the Club, the House of Jazz has hosted

celebrating its past, present, and future.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Jorja Smith, House of Jazz, 8 July 2018

“Jazz has had a facelift” The perfect way to honour the genre to which the festival is

venue undeniably harks back to the hushed and intimate atmo-

dedicated, is to keep proving its vibrant modernness and trying

sphere of an authentic jazz club. And now it can be host to even

to spark the interest of a younger public. “Jazz has had a face-

more big jazz names. In 2018, the stage was graced by virtuosos,

lift. It’s a lot cooler and more fashionable now,” confirmed Robert

including Stanley Clarke, Brad Mehldau, Jason Moran, Avishai

Glasper, a 40-year-old American pianist, who could be describing

Cohen, and Chick Corea, and it succumbed to the velvety tones of

his own work, given his contributions to the rejuvenation of jazz

Gregory Porter who paid a moving tribute to Nat King Cole.

in his experimental projects or his numerous collaborations with some of the biggest hip-hop stars. “Jazz has always been associ-

A wild night of music

ated with youth. Today, thanks to a new generation of musicians

On the ev ening of the eighth of July, the House of Jazz atmosphere

coming from a hip-hop background, jazz is back at the centre of

reached its peak. 1:30 a.m., just after the concert of “R+R=NOW”;

modern culture.”

the Montreux Jazz Club was preparing for a wild night of music; admission was free. Surprise guests had come to celebrate Quin-

Jazz clubs are once more attracting young amateur musicians. You

cy Jones’ 85th birthday. “Jazz is freedom,” announced the master

only have to be there to believe it. In a Club concert packed to the

of ceremonies. Then the fearless groove conjured up by Ibrahim

rafters, Robert Glasper, Christian Scott, Terrace Martin, Derrick

Maalouf, Richard Bona, Alfredo Rodriguez, Monty Alexander,

Hodge, Justin Tyson, and Taylor McFerrin presented their collabo-

Jacob Collier, Ezra Collective, and Jorja Smith took over. All of them

ration “R+R=NOW”. With its round tables and larger stage, this new

were determined to show their eternal gratitude to the American

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MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Above: Mos Def, R+R=Now, House of Jazz, 8 July 2018

Quincy Jones, House of Jazz, 8 July 2018

Down: Seu Jorge's Tribute to David Bowie, House of Jazz, 5 July 2018

producer. And together with the crowd, they sang “Happy Birthday”,

hushed voice, moved the crowd with a Brazilian twist to David

before a frosted cake arrived.

Bowie classics. His performance came at a particularly apt moment, as the House of Jazz paid tribute to Ziggy Stardust with

“Quincy is a symbol of black music. It’s an honour to play for him

an exhibition of the most memorable pictures taken by his official

on his birthday,” acknowledged Robert Glasper, who came back on

photographer Mick Rock on the legendary tour between 1972 and

stage with his companions for an electrifying jam before being

1973.

joined by his long-standing friends, rappers Mos Def and Talib Kweli.

“What’s crazy is I didn’t even know they were in Montreux before

“By definition, jazz was born from a melting pot of styles,” ex-

they turned up in the green room.”

plained Robert Glasper. “If we want to keep the tradition alive, it has to continue to evolve and incorporate different styles. Jazz is

Pushing the boundaries of jazz

about telling your own story without constantly repeating what has

The House of Jazz was established at the dawning of a new era of

already been said.”

jazz, but it intends to remain open to other styles of music. John Cale’s resonating sound of de-constructed rock on the opening night

A perfect illustration of this blending of genres would be the Swiss

of the Club on 29 June is indisputable proof. Joining the ranks was

band Zeal & Ardor, who combine gospel and black metal. They spo-

Belgian singer Selah Sue, whose acoustic performance fitted in

ke about their inspirations during a workshop at La Coupole and

sublimely with the intimacy of the venue. And then there was

took great pleasure in remixing MGMT with Rammstein and Gojira

Carioca Seu Jorge who, with his red beanie, classical guitar, and

with 50 Cent. “Welcome to the House of Jazz.”

th

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SIDE STORIES MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Auditorium Stravinski ELTON JOHN 2019 The 53rd edition of the festival already promises to be exceptional: Elton John will be performing for the first time at the Auditorium Stravinski, on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June 2019, as part of an epic three-year final "Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour". The concerts will take his fans on a musical and highly visual journey spanning a 50year career of hits.

© David Lachapelle

" I was telling my children about Montreux Jazz"

JACK WHITE

"I was telling my children about Montreux Jazz, they were saying, “Well, what is this festival?” They thought it was like Coachella or Lollapalooza. I said “No, it’s not that kind of festival. It’s people who really love music, coming together”. It starts with that, everything else is secondary. Which is rare nowadays."

7 FFJM – Emilien Itim

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SIDE STORIES MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

"The variety is amazing!"

IAN PAICE, DEEP PURPLE "Montreux Jazz is a very special festival unlike any other in the world. Because everything is so central, you can walk 100 metres and go to three or four different musical venues. The variety is amazing. The only thing I can liken it to is downtown Nashville, where you walk 20 metres and there’s another bar playing music."

"My favorite moments" JAMES BAY "I'm a massive fan of Montreux Jazz Festival. I’ve kind of grown up with it, from a distance. I’ve soaked up everything from a lot of the releases that have been put out. I’m just eternally grateful for everything that comes from this place. My favorite moments were Steve Ray Vaughan’s performances and Eric Clapton in 1986, when he had Phil Collins on drums."

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THE CHARM OF BOLGHERI One of the world’s best wines is produced close to Bolgheri along the Tuscan coast.

The name Ornellaia stands for top-class wine culture and the result of fine craftsmanship as well as love and passion for the art of winemaking.

30

The journey to the Ornellaia vineyard through the hills of

in the world. At the northern end of Maremma, on the

Tuscany and along the delightful coast stretching for mi-

old Via Aurelia, you turn left onto the five-kilometre-long

les shortly before arriving via the longest cypress avenue

avenue of cypresses lines with approx. 2,500 trees.

ADVERTORIAL

A heritage of 700 years of wine culture On arrival at the vineyard, there is a palpable aura of something very grand and unique. The ingredients of elegance, dedication, finesse, creativity and innovation are the keys to great wine culture.

And there are the approx. 700 years or over 30 generations of the Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi dynasty. The family’s history goes back to the year 1300. In the 14th century, the Florentine noble family supplied many European rulers with wine, including the French court under Catherine de Medici and the English court under Henry VII. The Grand Duke of Tuscany also appreciated the quality of the Frescobaldi vintages. The first Cabernet vineyard was planted in Castiglioncello di Bolgheri in 1944. It was only after many years that it became apparent that international grape varieties perfectly matched the climate in Bolgheri, resulting in the Mediterranean interpretation of Cabernet and Merlot wines. With the creation of Ornellaia, Bolgheri’s reputation as a unique terroir spread across the world. Shortly afterwards, in 1994, the registered designation of origin was introduced.

An extraordinary microclimate on the coast The Ornellaia vineyard is located close to the sea. In addition to the abundant sunlight, the vineyards benefit from the light reflections on the surface of the sea and an extraordinary microclimate, which further reinforces the Mediterranean character of the wine. In the summer, a cool sea breeze blows across the vineyard, favouring the slow ripening of the grapes resulting in the freshness of the wines. In the winter, the hills protect the vineyard from the cold north winds. Thanks to the high variability of the soils (seabed, alluvial soil or volcanic soil), there is a wide range of micro-terroirs in connection with the relief which form the basis for the wide variety of Ornellaia wines. This range of soils allows for the growing of very different grape varieties within their fairly unique requirements. The Ornellaia vineyard currently grows the following varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdichhio and Viognier. And each plot is worked by clearly-defined teams to ensure the continuity and experience of each individual crop, which is essential for the quality of Ornellaia wines.

31

ADVERTORIAL

make strong wines that impress but difficult to make wines that are both balanced and intense”, explains Axel Heinz to prove the point. Since 2005, the Head Winemaker at Ornellaia has made sure that the biggest star in the heavens of Italian wine shines brighter each year.

The different products in the Ornellaia family line up like the beloved sons and daughters of the parents of an Italian family dynasty. The two top wines, Ornellaia and Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia are the ambassadors of this excellent wine manufacturer from Bolgheri.

“IT IS THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE ORNELLAIA WINES THROUGH THEIR MANUAL LABOUR.”

Axel Heinz, Head Winemaker at the Ornellaia vineyard.

People make the wine “The terroir alone does not produce any wine”, says Axel Heinz, Head Winemaker at the Ornellaia vineyard. “It is the people who make

Archivio Storico

Ornellaia wines through their manual labour”, explains Axel Heinz.

Impressive yet unique is the newly-created “Archivio Storico” from

With 85 full-time employees, the individual teams can quickly react

the Ornellaia vineyard. Through the different Ornellaia vintages, it

to changes at the vineyard. This gives Axel Heinz the peace of mind

tells the story of a large brand and documents the quality of the

and the confidence to leave nature and the autumn sun the time

wines, which evolve over time reaching a state of perfect maturity

to give the grapes their unique sweetness and flavour. “It is easy to

after many years.

Ornellaia

Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia

The flagship of the family, the top wine,

A real “Second Wine”, primarily comes from the

or as described in the words of Head Wi-

young vines at the vineyard and is produced

nemaker Axel Heinz: “Its familiar intensive

using the same dedication and attention to

colour suggests a wine with lots of structure

detail as Ornellaia. The wine is dark and the

and intensity. The nose is characterised by

nose charmingly seduces with perfectly-ma-

fruity, mature yet simultaneously fresh aro-

tured red fruits and spices. It is full-bodied and

mas and rounded off with classic balsam

indulges the palate with a variety of aromas

and spicy notes. On the palate, it is sump-

and a wonderful velvety tannin structure.

tuous, dense and expansive, with an extraordinary, bitter-spicy quality, velvety and

Other products from the family such as

intense

smoothness,

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia and the white wine

which is amplified in the mouth. The long

Ornellaia Bianco or Poggio alle Gazze

finish ends with a sense of longevity and fine

dell'Ornellaia seamlessly join the range of

spicy notes”.

excellent products on offer.

32 32

with

a

significant

“WE ARE CONVINCED THAT WINE SHOULD BE THE TRUEST EXPRESSION OF ITS ORIGIN.“ Like bringing up a child “We are convinced that wine should be the truest expression of its origin“, says Giovanni Geddes da Filicaja, CEO of Ornellaia. The grand seigneur of Italian viticulture manages the Ornellaia vineyard with strategic vision, undisputed know-how, and a flair for discovering and selecting the world’s best oenologists. Geddes da Filicaja has already worked with well-known names such as Leonardo Raspini and Thomas Duroux, who currently runs Château Palmer in Bordeaux, or even the current manager Axel Heinz, who further develops the wines of the Ornellaia brand each year through manual skills and the courage to try new winemaking ideas. For him, Ornellaia’s history is akin to bringing up a child; this is how Giovanni Geddes da Filicaja describes his relationship with the vineyard. From childhood to adolescence to increasing stability and to its current ripeness, the wine has had a long journey under careful guidance. The production under CEO Geddes da Filicaja is, since the very beginning, not focused on sales figures but on the continuing development of the brand.

Giovanni Geddes da Filicaja, CEO of Ornellaia.

Italian cuisine redefined The two names Ornellaia and Bindella combine a decade-long friendship. Since the very first vintage in 1985, Bindella has imported the precious wine from Ornellaia to Switzerland. And on the initiative of Rudi Bindella, the first Ristorante Ornellaia was opened in Zurich in spring 2018. The restaurant is a platform for showcasing Ornellaia wines to allow the philosophy of exceptional quality to be experienced.

Good wine also demands good food. In the kitchen, the southern Italian Giuseppe D’Errico is responsible for unique taste experiences.

He spent five years as a Sous Chef in the legendary French three-star establishment “Troisgros” and redefines Italian cuisine through a surprising blend of traditional and fresh ideas. Giuseppe D’Errico has spent several days at the Ornellaia vineyard in Bolgheri to find out about the wines and their creators' ideas. The symbiosis between the cuisine at the highest level and the stars of the wine menu, which includes rarities such as “Archivio Storico”, is a great success. Ristorante Ornellaia is Zurich’s new culinary hotspot. As striking as a journey to the Bolgheri coastline.

www.ristorante-ornellaia.ch 33

A FESTIVAL THAT CELEBRATES FREEDOM T E X T: V i v i a n a V ir i | P I CT U R E S : © L o c a r n o F e s t i v a l

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LOCARNO FESTIVAL

The Locarno Festival in one word? Freedom. It is a motto that

the Alps and Lake Maggiore, which form a majestic backdrop to

has guided the event ever since its beginnings. "It's in our DNA,"

the world-famous Piazza Grande, is inspiring. Every evening, the

President Marco Solari would say. The 71st edition continued in

marvelous open-air theatre enthrals thousands of visitors with

its tradition of sharing and discovering the magic of cinema,

the help of the giant screen that transforms every festival night

confirming Locarno’s reputation as a forum for vibrant and

into a singular, deeply moving and thought-provoking event. As

independent voices in the universe of filmmaking. 155,000 visi-

director Ingmar Bergman put it, “No art passes our conscience

tors visitors came together for a stirring celebration of cinema

in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep

as a collective experience. Watching a film takes us on a journey

down into the secret rooms of our souls.” His appraisal may ex-

to other worlds, it lets us meet other people and see other lives.

plain why so many people are drawn to the Locarno Festival and

There is no better place for such an experience than Locarno.

how the event turns the town into a buzzing film metropolis

The atmosphere in the gorgeous Swiss town nestled between

every year.

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35

LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Cinema as a gesture of solidarity At a time of growing hostility, when people appear increasingly separated, Locarno places a special emphasis on celebrating human dignity and community. In 2018, this central concept was backed up by a very special occasion: a celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, organized in cooperation with the United Nations. The films shown to commemorate this historic event, offered a welcome reminder that cinema has not lost interest in the lives of others and that artists are still dedicated to bridging divides with empathy and respect.

The retrospectives of the Locarno Festival and the genius of Leo McCarey The retrospectives undoubtedly represent a shining jewel in the festival’s crown. The result of expert and painstaking curation, they offer an extraordinary showcase for masterpieces and rarities from the treasure chest of film history. They have included themed programmes, (on Soviet cinema from 1926-1948 or the prodigious Italian production house Titanus), wide-ranging tributes to contemporary auteurs, such Marco Bellocchio, Abbas Kiarostami, Aki Kaurismäki, as

Excellence Award for Ethan Hawke

well as complete filmographies of masters from the past, including George Cukor, Sam Peckinpah, and Jacques Tourneur. The Locarno71 During eleven intense days, festival-goers immerse themselves into

retrospective was dedicated to the genius of Leo McCarey, whose

the pleasures of freedom and exploration: They breathe the atmo-

brilliant works were shown in the historic Cinema GranRex and were

sphere of an open world and share a passion for stories, individuals,

almost exclusively projected from extremely rare celluloid prints, a

and ideas. Eleven sections make up the Locarno Festival programme

treat, that recreated the wondrous experience of watching McCarey’s

and offer a kaleidoscope of experiences and perspectives, true to

films back in his day. The retrospective also made an appearance

the event's renown as a showcase for varied and groundbreaking

on Piazza Grande on the opening night of the festival. Locarno’s

cinema. All the while, the selection of films maintains a subtle equi-

signature venue hosted the screening of “Liberty”, McCarey's silent

librium between arthouse and mainstream, serious and fantastic,

masterpiece, accompanied by live music. The joyous opening was

fictional and documentary; Cinema is the form of art that brings

representative of the 2018 programme which sought to confront

together extremes by exploring the endless possibilities in-between.

the frightening realities of the world around us with free and open-

This unique balancing act has been skillfully performed by Artistic

minded outlooks. To quote director Bruno Dumont, recipient of the

Director Carlo Chatrian, who invited the likes of Agnès Varda, Ken

Pardo d’onore 2018: “When reality ceases to be logical, only a disillu-

Loach, Werner Herzog, Juliette Binoche, Fanny Ardant, Edward

sioned gaze can allow us to move on.”

Norton, Adrien Brody and Ethan Hawke during his six-year tenure.

Now that Chatrian is moving on to the prestigious Berlinale, we look

A festival always closer to its public

forward with anticipation to the treasures that will be uncovered by

Locarno is a festival that reaches beyond the cinema screen, not only

our new Artistic Director, Lili Hinstin.

inviting its public to discover great films, but also allowing visitors to

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

Leopard Club Award winner Meg Ryan

meet those who create them. The 2018 edition was no exception. New

pivotal locations by inaugurating the PalaCinema, a state-of-the art

guests were welcomed for the first time, including French master Bruno

cinema with three screening rooms. It also allowed a phoenix - the

Dumont and Oscar-winning actor Jean Dujardin, who plays the

Cinema GranRex Auditorium Leopard Club - to rise from the ashes.

charming rogue in the Piazza Grande film “I Feel Good.” Old friends

The gorgeous historic film theatre was restored and prevented from

no longer with us were commemorated: Paolo Taviani paid a touching

being closed down. The promoters of the event are also dedicated to

tribute to his brother and co-director Vittorio by presenting a restored

enhancing the Locarno experience beyond cinema by developing wel-

print of their extraordinary 1987 film “Good Morning Babilonia.” Other

coming communal spaces, such as the outdoor bar and music venue

memorable moments with illustrious guests included Ethan Hawke's

“Locarno Garden la Mobiliare” – a perfect spot to wind down, reflect,

and Meg Ryan’s conversations with the public, Ted Hope’s greeting on

and exchange at the end of a full day of cinematic discovery. Equally

Piazza Grande, Kyle Cooper’s masterclass, and the irresistible introduc-

vital is their mission to facilitate contacts between the festival and its

tion of the Italo-Swiss feature "Un nemico che ti vuole bene" by Diego

fans above all by fostering cinephilia in younger viewers. They intend

Abantatuono and Sandra Milo.

to rise to the challenge by launching several dedicated projects, including Locarno Kids. The 71st edition emphatically confirmed the festi-

An all-round experience

val’s status as a place where the future takes shape.

In line with its taste for free and adventurous cinema, the Locarno Festival is constantly seeking new avenues and possibilities. For its

The 72nd edition of the Locarno Festival will take place from 7 to 17

70th anniversary, the festival redrew the map of its own borders and

August 2019.

Ted Hope, Premio Rezzonico (Best Independent Producer Award)

Jean Dujardin, actor, “I Feel Good”

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37

SIDE STORIES LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Delegation of the film “Hatzlila (The Dive)”

New filmmakers around the world CONCORSO CINEASTI DEL PRESENTE A genuine space for research and discovery, the Concorso Cineasti del presente section hosts first or second features by emerging young filmmakers from around the world. Some fifteen documentaries or fiction films screen as world and international premieres. They offer a unique, utterly personal outlook and compete for the coveted Pardo d’oro Cineasti del presente.

Luna Kwok, actress, in “A Land imagined”

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SIDE STORIES LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Short Films

PARDI DI DOMANI

Party of Pardi di domani

A major showcase for talents of the future, the Pardi di domani section is one of the crown jewels of the Locarno Festival. The section presents short and medium-length films made by independent young directors and film school students who have not yet completed a first full-length feature.

Premiere CONCORSO INTERNAZIONALE With the Concorso internazionale, the Locarno Festival goes beyond borders and presents an exciting overview of contemporary auteur filmmaking in which entries from young talents screen alongside works by established directors. A jury of eminent personalities from the world of cinema must pick the winner of the prestigious Pardo d'oro award, which goes to an international full-length fiction or documentary feature premiering in Locarno.

Recipients include YEO Siew Hua (2018), Wang Bing (2017), Ralitza Petrova (2016), HONG Sang-soo (2015), Lav Diaz (2014).

YEO Siew Hua, winner of the Pardo d’oro for “A Land imagined”

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

39

WHEN BEETHOVEN & CO. INSPIRE TODAY’S TALENTS

© Priska Ketterer | Lucerne Festival

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LUCERNE FESTIVAL

T E X T: A N N A K A R D O S | P I CT U R E S : P r i s ka Ke t t e r e r, P at r i ck H u e rlim a n n

Superar Suisse enables children to practise their instruments, learn working in teams, and assume responsibility. The project made its first guest appearance at the 2018 Lucerne Festival.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

41

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

© Priska Ketterer | Lucerne Festival

Orchestra camp rehearsal under the direction of Ulysses Ascanio

"Va-va-voom!" 100 violin bows dart through the air at the KKL Concert

was set high. And as soon as Ascanio began rehearsing, the pace of

Hall in Lucerne , 100 fortissimo final notes, 100 children playing them.

work accelerated and the musicians' concentration intensified.

The last bars of Rossini's overture to "William Tell" are a roller-coaster ride turned into music: action-packed, dynamic, brilliant.

"Matematica! Ma-te-ma-ti-ca," the Venezuelan reminded his musicians whenever a passage was shaky during rehearsal. He was

Just like Superar. The Lucerne Festival featured the promotional

right. The notes in the finale of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony indeed

project with a concert at the KKL Concert Hall for the first time in

correlate like the sides of an equation with several variables — highly

2018. For the young musicians, it was the culmination of a week-

complex but logical music. If you have ever solved an equation with

long summer camp. An XXL camp, in fact: Every day included seven

several variables in front of an audience of 1,900 people (as many the

hours of rehearsals for 130 children who had travelled to Switzer-

Concert Hall holds), remember that Beethoven is decidedly more

land from six countries and combined 26 nationalities.

difficult.

The result was there for all to see and hear. The sound was sonorous, the fingers of the 132 instrumentalists fleet. The young talents made the notes sway with such exhilaration during Shostakovich's "Waltz" that the concert hall transformed into a ballroom. Their fingers danced deftly over the keys and strings of their instruments during Brahms's "Hungarian Dance.” During Johann Strauss's "Radetzky March", however, the orchestra was barely audible against the fortissimo coming from the audience clapping in time to the music.

The pieces belong to the ultimate playlist of classical music. And their tempo is fast. Very fast. The omnipresent ice-cream print on the turquoise blue T-shirts that the young musicians wore as a uniform was deceiving. The theme was hardly "Summertime, and the Living is Easy" but rather "Bootcamp with Beethoven and Brahms.”

Ulysses Ascanio played an active role in the project. Needless to say that the conductor demanded a great deal of the 132 youngsters. © Priska Ketterer | Lucerne Festival

Not least because the world's best orchestras usually perform in the KKL Concert Hall, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and the Lucerne Festival Orchestra. The bar

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Orchestra camp rehearsal

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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© Patrick Hurlimann | Lucerne Festival

© Priska Ketterer | Lucerne Festival

© Priska Ketterer | Lucerne Festival

Orchestra camp rehearsal

Six years ago, Superar Suisse was established in the Canton of Aargau to support the skills of children and young people from seven to eighteen years of age — and especially to help them with their education and

Michael Haefliger welcomes the young musicians

«EVERY CHILD IS A MEMBER OF A GROUP RIGHT FROM THE START.»

four to eight lessons. Instead of practising at home, they work in a group. The older kids show the younger ones what to do.

Thus, young kids learn new finger movements and intonation, and the older ones learn to

career. This support does not come in the form of boring private

assume responsibility. "Superar is Spanish for "surpass". Our name is

lessons, but through music.

no coincidence."

Viola player Yll (15) explains how everything started for him: "There

The project has been influenced by the Venezuelan "Sistema." Deve-

was a presentation at school. Musicians played pop songs on clas-

loped in 1978 by the musician and economist José Antonio Abreu, the

sical instruments. That was cool. Nobody in my family plays an in-

"el Sistema" music programme offers an oppurtunity for kids coming

strument, but I knew this music." What started for YII with "Frère

from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Graduates of "el Sistema",

Jacques" three years ago, bore fruit with names, such as Beethoven

such as star conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the members of the

and Shostakovich. There were no other musicians in 15-year-old

Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra have long been the standard-

Rebekkah's family, either. The orchestra's flautist has been with

bearers for the project. But what has Caracas to do with Zurich? "We

Superar London for the past five years and is now playing extraordi-

don't have material poverty in Switzerland," explains Marco Castellini,

narily well, moving to Rossini's music as if it were R'n'B.

"but the challenges children are facing with regard to finding their place in life are similar, whether they live in Caracas or here.“

The two are no exceptions. Superar Suisse works only with schools in which the proportion of children playing an instrument falls

And this is where the great composers of the past enter the

below the national average. It is working presently in the Cantons

picture. They are meant to play their part in shaping the future

of Aargau, Basel, Zurich, and Ticino. Tuition is free. And the students

of today's kids. Anyone expecting a casting show from Superar

are also provided with an instrument. And Superar has its own

like "Britain's Got Talent" has it quite wrong. Superar is not a pro-

method of ensuring that they keep practising:

motional programme for individuals but a project organized as a collective and for everyone. Above all, performing is key. Marco

They do it as part of a team. "In my opinion, the social and

Castellini explains why: "When the children are on stage, when

personal aspects are of prime importance,” says Marco Castellini,

they hear and experience the applause, it's all about self-esteem.

Artistic Director and founding member of Superar. "Every child is

They learn: I am important. But also that they must make an effort

a member of a group right from the start of our programme. The

to achieve things." There was no need to stress this aspect at the

child learns that if he or she fails to turn up for rehearsals a part of

KKL Concert Hall, however: 100 hands, 100 bows, and 100 notes

the music is missing." The young musicians meet every week for

were able to shine during their farewell concert.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

45

SIDE STORIES LUCERNE FESTIVAL

© Patrick Hürlimann/Lucerne Festival

Groups Of Street Musicians IN THE STREETS Under the general heading "In the Streets," international groups of street musicians have been gathering over the last fourteen years to play for a week in the old part of Lucerne.

In 2018, artists from fourteen countries performed at the World Music Festival, which is part of the Summer Festival.

© Patrick Hürlimann/Lucerne Festival

46

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

SIDE STORIES LUCERNE FESTIVAL

Orchestra GUEST PERFORMANCES World-class orchestras that started out as youth projects regularly give guest performances in Lucerne. As part of the "Summer of Childhood," the National Youth Wind Orchestra and the Lucerne Festival Orchestra Camp became much admired representatives of the younger generation at Lucerne Festival.

© Manuela Jans/Lucerne Festival

CD HISTORIC PERFORMANCES The ongoing "Historic Performances" series of CDs includes carefully remastered original recordings from the early years of what was then called the Internationale Musikfestwochen Luzern and is today known as Lucerne Festival. They are all taken from the archives of Swiss Radio (SRF).

Between 1992 and 2001, SRF recorded more than 50 concerts during the Easter Festival alone.

© Manuela Jans/Lucerne Festival

111 Volunteers HALL TEAM Lucerne Festival’s "hall team" consists of volunteers and was formed several years ago to sell programme booklets and assist visitors at the various festival venues. This year's team consisted of 111 volunteers for the Summer Festival.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

47

COMING UP 24.-29. MARCH 2020 S T. M O R I T Z www.mondiana.ch

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES SWISS and Swiss Top Events both pursue an important joint

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We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration.

Markus Binkert Chief Commercial Officer Member of the Management Board

50

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

ADVERTORIAL

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51

Views of Lugano and San Salvatore from Monte Brè

SPORT IN THE CITY

Sport in Swiss towns and cities

If you want to work out in Switzerland, you don’t have to leave town – our urban centres have all you need for exercising and recharging your batteries.

Whether in the middle of town, on water or on a local mountain, Swiss towns and cities have some healthy voyages of discovery to offer. Discover the places where the locals go.

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Urban golf in Fribourg

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

SWITZERLAND TOURISM

If you really want to get your adrenaline pumping, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Zurich. The city on the River Limmat is located amidst unspoiled nature and offers sports enthusiasts of all levels ideal terrain for training. Zurich can be explored on a leisurely walk – around the lake, through the forests of its surrounding hills or through the hip Zurich-West district.

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Running route – Limmat route in Zurich

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Stand-up paddling on Lake Zug

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2019

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WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

LETZIGRUND – HOME STADIUM OF GLOBAL ATHLETIC STARS SINCE 1928

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T E X T: ANDREAS CUENI UND PETER A. FREI | P I CT U R E S : We lt k l a s s e Zür i ch

“Unparalleled,” people say when asked about the world

stars of athletics to create the legendary buzz that has helped

famous atmosphere at Weltklasse Zürich. “Unlike any other.”

produce so many heroes and magic moments at Letzigrund

Every year, 25,000 stadium visitors team up with the greatest

Stadium.

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Sebastian Coe's (#124) duel with Switzerland's Pierre Délèze in 1985

Hary’s 10.0 run earned Letzigrund Stadium and the Zurich meeting a spot in the athletics history books. The first time round, however, Hary’s winning time was not confirmed. A false start had not been called, and so the results were invalidated. The 23-year-old European champion and two of his opponents repeated the race 35 minutes later. The results: 10.0, 10.0, and 10.1. Armin Hary was officially the first athlete to run the 100m in 10 seconds, and the Zurich track became the “piste magique”, the magic track.

Legends and Sagas In its magnificent history, Weltklasse Zürich produced many heroes and celebrated crowd favourites. One of them is now President of the international athletics association IAAF. Nearly 40 years ago, the multiple Olympic and world champion Sebastian Coe delighted fans at Letzigrund Stadium. The sophisticated athlete won five races in Zurich, setting a new 1500m world record in 1979 and The great Carl Lewis won eight Zurich races.

one in the mile in 1981. On both occasions, the crowd’s cheering seemed to carry him to his stellar performances.

«Piste magique»

During the eighties, Carl Lewis dominated the sport, both global-

The story of Weltklasse Zürich, now a global brand, began in 1928,

ly and at Letzigrund Stadium. In Zurich, the nine-time Olympic

when Finland’s 31-year-old nine-time Olympic champion Paavo Nurmi

champion and eight-time world champion won eight races and

lined up for the 5000m race at Letzigrund Stadium. The name of

set two new world records. The American star was one of several

what is now the most prestigious one-day athletics event says it all:

great figures who helped shape the history of Weltklasse Zürich.

Weltklasse Zürich is about world class. And for a long time, it was

Another living legend is long-distance icon Haile Gebrselassie.

mostly about world records which sent people in the arena and in

With his stunning performances and his big smile, he ran strai-

front of TV sets into a frenzy of enthusiasm. Martin Lauer, a 22-year-old

ght into people’s hearts. He electrified the arena on his way to

student from Germany, started the long series with his world record

a new 5000m world record in 1995 and 1997. 1.64m tall and a

runs in the 110m and 200m hurdles in 1959. One year later, Armin

giant on the track, he seemed to barely touched the track surface

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WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

during his 12.5 lap runs. His opponents learned to fear his break-

André Bucher shook off a field of tough opponents on the home

neck speed-up on the final lap. Gebrselassie was famous for his

stretch and won the 800m. One year later, he repeated the feat as

grace; he won his races in style. His performances are among the

a newly crowned world champion, when taking the lead from the beginning and winning in 1:42.55 – a national record he still holds

fondest memories of Zurich fans.

today. The most recent Swiss winner of an international event is The most recent world record at Weltklasse Zürich dates back to

European champion Kariem Hussein. He won in the 400m hurdles

2009. At the age of 27, Russian pole vault queen Yelena Isinba-

race in 2015 – another unforgettable Weltklasse Zürich experience!

yeva made up for her devastating defeat and three failed attempts at the Berlin world championships days earlier by providing the

Kings and Reigns

crowd with a magic moment when she cleared 5.06m. It was her

Jamaica’s millennium athlete Usain Bolt caused the fiercest storms

27th world record. In addition to Isinbayeva, two other women

of enthusiasm ever. Bolt worked magic both on and off the track.

created their own decades-long Weltklasse Zürich sagas: Mozam-

His pre-start show was legendary. And so were the trips to the

bique’s 800m star Maria Mutola triumphed twelve times between

city’s clubs after the meeting. He enjoyed celebrating his wins with

1993 and 2004. And Jamaican sprint legend Merlene Ottey lined

excited fans. During his years in Zurich, he seemed to outshine

up as many as 15 times to win the 100m and 200m repeatedly.

everything and everyone.

Local Heroes

In 2017, Mo Farah took on the job of performing magic at Letzi-

Weltklasse Zürich is, and always has been, a platform for Swiss

grund Stadium and added another chapter to the Weltklasse

athletes of international standing. The men’s shot put became a

Zürich story: The 34-year-old British long-distance king delivered

blockbuster event when triple world champion Werner Günthör

an unprecedented finish in his 5000m race. In a Hitchcock-like

won five Weltklasse Zürich competitions in the eighties and nine-

finale, he won by four hundredths of a second. A triumphant ending

ties. Seven years later, in 2000, the crowd erupted into cheers when

to his impressive reign of the track and one of many monumental

the next local hero stepped onto the track at Letzigrund Stadium:

moments in the 90 year-long history of Weltklasse Zürich.

Outshone everyone with his performances at Letzigrund Stadium: Usain Bolt

In 2009 Yelena Isinbayeva made athletics history with her world record.

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SIDE STORIES WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

Digital MAGIC MOMENTS Zurich has witnessed countless magic moments at Letzigrund Stadium since the first edition of the athletics meeting in 1928. Armin Hary’s record runs in 1960 made the arena’s “piste magique”, its magic track, world famous. Mo Farah provided one of the most recent magic moments when he bid his track career farewell in 2017. weltklassezuerich.ch/youtube

Largest event to promote young talents UBS KIDS CUP – A SUCCESS STORY 170,000 children all over Switzerland participated in qualifying competitions of the UBS Kids Cup in 2018.

The project by Weltklasse Zürich and Swiss Athletics is the largest event promoting young athletes in Switzerland. The best 540 talents compete in a national final at Letzigrund Stadium two days after the Weltklasse Zürich competitions are completed.

Next final event: 31/08/2019

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SIDE STORIES WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

Kids train with stars ATHLETICS STARS COACH KIDS IN A TRAINING SESSION THEY WILL NEVER FORGET National and international athletics stars treat more than 1,000 children in various Swiss towns to one of the best days in their lives. Olympic, world, and European champions, as well as local heroes share their passion for athletics with the youngest talents and fans of the country.

Next events: 27 | 08 | 2019

Zurich Main Station SPECTACULAR POLE VAULT ROADSHOW The world’s best pole vaulters, a majestic ticket hall, and 3,000 spectators: Weltklasse Zürich at Zurich Main Station serves as a spectacular overture to the IAAF Diamond League final at Letzigrund Stadium. The event provides fans, passers-by, and commuters- and thus a very broad audience- with fascinating athletics action.

Next event: 28/08/2019

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YVES MITTAZ, DER LANGE WEG DIRECTOR OF GOLF ZUR PERFEKTION IN CRANS-MONTANA T E X T: Me d a rd Me i e r B I L D E R : D a n i e l M a r t i n e k

T E X T: M e d a r d M e i e r | P I CT U R E S : H e r vé D e p r ez

Yves Mittaz sieht ein bisschen aus wie ein erfahrener Walliser Bergführer. Er ist hager und drahtig.

Das Gesicht – markant geschnitten, Dreitagebart – scheint vom Wetter gegerbt zu sein. Der vermeintliche Bergler ist jedoch Turnierdirektor des Omega European Masters in Crans-Montana. Immer präsent, vor, während und nach dem Turnier, hier eine Anweisung, dort eine Unterstützung, immer mit dem Ziel, den Spielern, den Zuschauern und den Sponsoren das Beste zu bieten.

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Yves Mittaz looks a bit like an experienced Valais mountain guide. He’s thin and wiry. The face - with distinctive creases and designer stubble - seems to be tanned by the weather. But the supposed mountain dweller is the Tournament Director of the Omega European Masters in Crans-Montana. Always present, before, during and after the tournament, an instruction here, support there, always with the aim of offering the players, the spectators and the sponsors the best.

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OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

The Canton of Valais has the highest peaks in the Swiss Alps

region is attending and celebrating fittingly, raclette, Fendant

and, and it also hosts Switzerland's peak golf event - the Omega

and all. Here, at a height of at a height of 1500 metres, golf has

European Masters in Crans-Montana. The Alpine plateau above

been a sport for everyone, ever since tourists took the game to

Rhone Valley is a natural stage second to none. The event of the

Alpine meadows 100 years ago.

PGA European Tour is the highlight of the year everyone in the

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OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Yves Mittaz, 58, has been Crans' Event Director for 35 years. He has

year demonstrated that the tournament is on the right track. Crans

world-wide connections to players and sponsors. He pulls the strings

won this sponsorship in competition with a number of other major

so that everyone interested in the event is involved. He also lends a

European golf events. The real trick, to Mittaz, is to keep the long-

hand when the splendid course with its 18 holes requires it. Born in

standing sponsors on board. Continued enhancements are therefore

Crans and growing up within 300 metres from the course, being Tour-

necessary, whether in catering, hospitality, or transportation.

nament Director is more than a job for him. "It's my life," he once said But Mittaz is also convinced that a large part of the "pulling power"

in an interview with the "Valais" magazine.

of the tournament is the loyalty of the public. He considers it His time spent as a trainee with the local Credit Suisse branch

important to keep reminding people that they are in the right

certainly helped persuade Mittaz that he loved sport more than

place, and he does not shy away from trying new things to do so. In

anything but also taught him to consider finances first. The time he

2018, the event held an "After Golf Festival" in a marquee pitched in

spent with IMG, the sports marketing specialist, may have pushed

the middle of the village where John Daly made a musical appearan-

him in the same direction, and he originally took over the directors-

ce. The eccentric American golfer was also at the tee-off in Crans for

hip under their auspices. The quiet Alpine golf tournament became

the first time - two debuts for him at the same event.

a major event with a budget of twelve million Swiss francs, a sum which is only exceeded by the Swiss Indoors Basel tennis tourna-

There is no doubt that he is a star. But for mastermind Mittaz players

ment. "Financing this sum every year is my most important and

must never outshine the event. Mittaz wants to avoid becoming

most complicated job," says Mittaz.

dependent in the way that the Swiss Indoors Basel has become

Sponsors contribute seven million Swiss francs. First and foremost,

great atmosphere and the very best golf, but it should never be all

there is Omega, title sponsor since 2001. Then there is Credit Suisse

about a single player. Unlike tennis, golf has the advantage of being

which has remained faithful to the tournament for the last 30

able to provide excitement and a spectacle even with relatively

years. As in every other business, satisfying those who pay is the first

unknown players. But Mittaz is obviously delighted that famous

priority. According to Mittaz, the fact that it proved possible to sign

names, such as Miguel Ă ngel JimĂŠnez, Sergio GarcĂ­a, Lee Westwood,

up the American company PPG Paints as a new main sponsor last

and Matthew Fitzpatrick travel to Crans on a regular basis.

dependent on Roger Federer. Crans must be an experience with a

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OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Splashing out huge appearance fees is not his style. He thinks that

a course designer a long time ago, will always do his best. Over

it is just too risky, and it could mean that only two players might

the last 15 years, he has invested an average of one million francs

make a big difference - Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. The former

on the course each year. And this will continue. The 12th, 14th, 15th,

would definitely break the bank. And the latter, an Omega brand

16th fairways will each be given a makeover. And Mittaz dreams

ambassador anyway, is certainly within his reach if the date fits

of remodeling hole 18, and providing it with a special feature. His

again. It probably will in 2019. But there is one player he always

second dream? "That Tiger Woods will play in Crans again." And the

wants to sign up at any price - the sun. It always takes centre stage

third? "To have Severiano Ballesteros here again."

at the event and delights sponsors and spectators alike. But mist, cold, rain and occasionally even snow can interfere on occasion.

This Spanish player, who lent his name to the course, had won the Crans tournament twice. However, sadly, he died much too young.

All three major stakeholders - the sponsors, the guests, and the

To Yves Mittaz, he was a phenomenon, and he clearly still feels a

players, of course, look for an agreeable round. Mittaz who became

close attachment to him, even today.

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SIDE STORIES OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Golf competition THE RYDER CUP The Ryder Cup is a golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. The competition is contested every two years with the venue alternating between courses in the United States and Europe. After the 2016 Ryder Cup was hosted and won by the Americans, the European Team was eager to taste revenge in 2018!

The event was held in Paris in September, and Team Europe featuring Italy’s Francesco Molinari, Englishmen Justin Rose, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Paul Casey and Ian Poulter, Spain’s Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia, as well as Sweden’s Alex Noren and Henrik Stenson, Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, and finally Denmark’s Thorbjorn Oleson won the trophy back, thanks to an incredible team spirit reinforced by a magical crowd of over 250,000 people.

Defending champion MATTHEW FITZPATRICK With four wins and six top-three results to his name on the European Tour, 23-year-old Englishman has shown that a bright future lies ahead. Matthew Fitzpatrick is the first defending champion at the Omega European Masters to win in two consecutive years (2017/2018) 40 years after Spain's legend Severiano Ballesteros.

Emblematic views HOLE 7 The view from hole 7, overlooking Rhone Valley is simply breathtaking and unforgettable for players and spectators. Players have never allowed the spectacular surroundings to distract them, however. They scored no less than 60 eagles (2 under par) and 1,058 birdies (1 under par) during the last five years of the Omega European Masters.

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SIDE STORIES OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Miguel Angel Jimenez still at the top at age 54 A GOLFING CAREER CAN LAST OVER 30 YEARS According to a study, the average age of PGA tour golfers is around 35 years. The good news is that players can still turn professional in their early 30s. It was also found that the best years for a golf professional is between 30 and 35, although plenty of tour players have shown they can still win tournaments in their 40s. Miguel Àngel Jiménez won the Omega European Masters at the age of 46. The oldest champion in PGA tour history who won a tournament was 52 years old unconceivable in many other sports!

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El Salvador

On the right track T E X T: J e s s i c a P f i s t e r | P I CT U R E S : R e m o N ä g e li

The same passion for music unites NEMO from Bienne, Switzerland and Dani from San Salvador. The two musicians have forged a wonderful friendship during the visit of the Swiss Red Cross to El Salvador.

Daniel Lopez, 22, dreams of a music career, and was listening

Swiss charts. Even if the pair don’t speak the same language,

to rap from a very young age. He later created his own rhythms

through the translator they can understand the passion for music

and writes lyrics in his hut, built with corrugated sheets of iron.

that binds them. “What are your words about?” Nemo asks Dani.

A one-room dwelling he shares with his 86-year-old grandmo-

“Life in the city, violence, drugs, but also love”, says Dani while

ther and seven other members of his family in Ciudad Delgado,

playing some beats he starts rapping over. Nemo moves his head

a poor ghetto in the capital of El Salvador.

to the rhythm. In this piece, Dani describes three friends he has lost; “the first died from an overdose, the second had an accident

Not without a sense of pride he’s now showing his compositions

and the third was shot.”

to Nemo Mettler, the young 19-year-old rapper from Bienne has become famous in Switzerland. Nemo shared the same dream

San Salvador is one of the most dangerous cities in the world, with

with Dani, which he recently achieved by winning four Swiss

an average of ten homicides every night. In a country half the size

Music Awards and his song “Du” made it into the top 10 of the

of Switzerland, gangs make the law and terrorise the population.

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ADVERTORIAL

Impressed At home, Daniel Lopez plays some of his songs to Nemo: “You’re really talented”, the Swiss musician assures him.

Skilled The SRC enabled Jairo Franco to further his skill in mechanics. Previously he had no training and no job.

A quarter of young people in El Salvador are “ninis - ni trabajan,

"Nobody cared about my future.” Young people like Dani are dream

ni estudian”; neither working nor studying. On the one hand it’s

prey for gangs, the maras, who initially act as surrogate families

too dangerous to go from compulsory school to the high school

before proceeding to exploit them for their criminal acts.

if the latter is located in a rival gang’s territory and, on the other, employers offer few opportunities to young people from poor

He seized his chance three years ago when the Swiss Red Cross

neighbourhoods. To remedy this situation, the SRC (Swiss Red

started working in Dani’s district and built a playground with his

Cross) is supporting projects to improve the future prospects of

friends and the support of the Swiss Red Cross. This project enabled

young people by providing training opportunities. 3,400 youngsters

Dani to meet people who believed in him: “My life then changed

in San Salvador have benefited from these programmes.

radically.” He started attending school again and is now training to be a caregiver. He would then like to pursue his studies with

“My songs reflect the difficulties young people face in El Salvador,”

“music as my biggest dream”. He’s bringing up his 4-month-

says Dani. His mother died when he was a child and he adds: “My

old baby with his partner, Janida, who works at the hospital.

father was hardly a role model.” Dani left school at 12 years old

“I want my son to have better opportunities than I did,” says the

and sold mobile phones and other electrical devices on the street:

young dad.

YOU CAN HELP The Swiss Red Cross in El Salvador is committed to providing a better future for young people.

Donation account: CCP 30-9700-0 IBAN: CH97 0900 0000 3000 9700 0 www.redcross.ch

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"YOU JUST HAVE TO LOVE LAUBERHORN MOUNTAIN" T E X T: R i ch a r d H e g g lin | P I CT U R E S : St e p h a n B รถ g li

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INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

When Beat Feuz (31) scorches down Lauberhorn mountain, it looks

podium three times. Nevertheless, it was not a case of love at first

gentle in spite of the elemental force of speeds up to 160 km/h.

sight for Beat Feuz and Lauberhorn. Their third encounter was all

No other athlete handles the course with such virtuosity. Feuz and

the more intense. Feuz delivers an ode to Lauberhorn mountain

the legendary course seem to merge. The result is a work of art.

and its races in his interview.

He has won the event in Wengen twice and has made it to the

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INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

«THE ATMOSPHERE OF THE LAUBERHORN WEEKEND IS UNIQUE.» The Lauberhorn races. Are they as legendary for you, as they

Does the closeness in Wengen get to you at times?

seem to be for all fans of skiing?

This is Wengen. You're right in the middle of things. In my opinion this

They are. For every skier, for every Swiss. The atmosphere of the Lau-

special setting provides athletes with an extra boost of energy. There

berhorn weekend is unique. It starts en route to the event - on the

is always a hullabaloo, even at the start: Spectators gather there early

train trip from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen. Cars are banned from the

in the morning. So you tend to forget about any hassles you may have

village, so everyone has to walk. We always mingle with the public

had and just enjoy yourself.

as we move around, even before the race in the packed approach to the start. There is nothing like it in the world. Just being there feels

Everybody is enthusiastic about the wonderful view. But do

like going back in time, that's why the Wengen event is so fascinating.

competitors have to time to even take it in?

Frenchman Luc Alphand, three-time winner of the Alpine Ski

Wengen. So we do enjoy the unique backdrop. Even at the starting

World Cup, once described Lauberhorn mountain as "Jurassic

gate, athletes may look up sometimes. I once said, "You just have to

Not so much on a race day, but we get to spend an entire week in

Park", a reference to the dinosaur era themed film.

love Lauberhorn mountain." But I don't know a single fellow competi-

(laughs). He got it right! There is not a more taxing race in the entire

tor in the race for whom this race is not a highlight of the season.

World Cup, but no-one grumbles about it. This proves how much athletes love the race. Otherwise we would have complained about

Even the course is special, sometimes anachronistic.

it long ago. This event is demanding, even for spectators.

That's what makes it so attractive. And then there is its length. The stretch with Hundschopf, Minschkante, and Brüggli-S suits me best.

Fans get to be very close to their stars in Wengen. Passengers

I like that section of the course. Whenever I won the race, this is where

are squashed up against each other in the narrow compart-

I was able to make all the difference.

ments of the Wengernalp Railway.

That's all part of the experience. The Swiss team usually stays at

The glide sections of the course are not your thing. But in Wengen,

the far side of the village. We walk through the entire town on our

you are (almost) always a competitor to watch out for.

way to the station. Everyone can meet everyone, if they choose

The first time I was in Wengen, I warned my coach that I wasn't going

to. Elsewhere, we disappear in an athlete's hotel or behind the

to be friends with the course easily. I clearly remember saying this.

fence of some no-go zone.

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In your first race you didn't do particularly well.

Do you have any specific objectives for the next season?

I needed time to become familiarised with the territory. At the first

You have to have objectives. The overall standing or a crystal globe

attempt, I finished well behind the leader. Five seconds, in fact

is a dream. But just like last year, dreams will become objectives as

(editor - in 42nd place). The second time round, I lost my strength

the winter progresses; They depend on the overall situation. I will

as the race went on. The coaches quite wrongly accused me of

try to defend my title at the world championships in Aare, Sweden.

being out of shape. I fell at the finish S. But then, I won my third

Claiming another title is definitely an objective. And then there

race, much to my own surprise.

are the legendary races - Wengen, Kitzbühel. I still have a score to settle on one of these two...

By now, the length of the course is no longer a problem for you.

On the contrary, you approach the finish faster and faster. Karl

And the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2022? Are they a goal?

Frehsner, champion of the coaches' guild attributes this to your

Not a major one. I have no plans for the Olympic Games after

innate economical way of skiing.

Pyoenchang. I won two medals. I would not continue skiing just for

I am not so sure it is innate. I worked hard to acquire this strength

Olympic Games.

over the course of seven or eight years. My many injuries forced me to find a way of using it wisely.

«I WASN'T GOING TO BE FRIENDS WITH THIS COURSE EASILY.»

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SIDE STORIES INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

Canadian Corner Hospitality SPECTACULAR VIP LOUNGE AT CANADIAN CORNER The new VIP Lounge at Canadian Corner was opened on the occasion of the 2018 International Lauberhorn Races. The view from the "Canadian Corner Hospitality" of Hundschopf, Minschkante, Canadian Corner, and Alpweg Trail is spectacular. Nowhere else in the Alpine Skiing World Cup is the spectator closer to the spots where races might be lost or won. The guest list for the grand opening of the lounge included Urs Lehmann (President of Swiss Ski) and Michael Huber (President of the KitzbĂźhl Ski Club). They, too, were enthusiastic about the new location.

"Dago" DAGOBERT CAHANNES: INTERVIEWER AND COMMENTATOR For many years, Dagobert Cahannes has added to the International Lauberhorn Races with telling comments and his great expertise in skiing. Time and time again, prominent guests made their way to the commentator's box high above the finish in Innerwengen, including Alain Berset, President of the Swiss Confederation and Bernhard Pulver, Chairman of the Bern Cantonal Executive Council. Both dignitaries share the public's enthusiasm for ski racing and took the opportunity to thank the many volunteers for their commitment.

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SIDE STORIES INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

Embedded THE INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES – DEEPLY EMBEDDED IN THE REGION The Lauberhorn races have become a major international event. The races and the accompanying programmes are followed in many countries and on almost every continent. However, the event is only possible thanks to its wide support and the fact that it is deeply embedded in the region. A sponsorship association was formed many years ago to maintain and provide further support. Its members include the local municipal governments, organisations, companies, and individuals. The association's chairman is Peter Aeschimann, the mayor of Matten bei Interlaken.

Precision PATROUILLE SUISSE AND SWISS IN THE SKY The appearances of Patrouille Suisse and Swiss in the Sky at the International Lauberhorn Races are always particularly spectacular. These two partners put on a superlative aerobatic display against the breath-taking backdrop of the Bernese Alps. The skill of the pilots is a perfect fit with the Lauberhorn Races: Great precision is also required from the athletes, as they navigate Hundschopf, Kernen S, and finish S.

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80 ST. MORITZ GRAND PRIX TH

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WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

T E X T: Stefan Mathys | PI CT U R ES: Swiss-image, Andy Mettler With an overall prize money of 450,000 Swiss francs, White Turf

the European championship on snow, is also Switzerland’s most

St. Moritz awards more money than any other Swiss horse racing

lucrative race, with an award of 111,111 Swiss francs. In 2019, the

event. The LONGINES Grand Prix of St. Moritz, known for being

80 th edition of the Grand Prix will be held.

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Absolutely breath-taking for spectators: the exclusive Skikjöring races

Over the past 112 years, White Turf has been so much more than just a horse-racing event; It is a highlight of St. Moritz’s social calendar.

Visitors have flocked to witness the spectacle ever since the very first time it took place. Back in 1907, Rhaetian Railway put

«THE LONGINES GRAND PRIX OF ST. MORITZ.»

The St. Moritz Grand Prix first became a flat racing event in 1924, and it still is to this day. Prior to then, the prestigious race had been a Skikjöring race for a few years, and it was once held as a harness race.

Back in the day, legendary American jockey George Archibald won the first St. Moritz

on extra trains when the first races were held. This was no mean feat, as the railway line to St. Moritz was only

Grand Prix on six-year-old gelding Sinnfein, entering the history books

opened in 1904. Every year, a small city of marquees is pitched up

in the Engadin Valley thirteen years after sitting in Meridian’s saddle

alongside the racecourse, housing restaurants, bars, music stages, and

and winning the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and setting a

shops. And if the weather plays along, it is like being in a wonderland

new record. In the long history of the St. Moritz Grand Prix, George

of snow and ice —which is precisely why generations of visitors have

Archibald was not the only top jockey to attract attention in the Enga-

been charmed by White Turf. It is an incredible experience beyond

din Valley. A series of derby winners have soaked up the atmo-

description.

sphere and enjoyed this spectacular horse race on snow in St. Moritz since the 1920s, including John Henry “Skeets” Martin and the

The LONGINES Grand Prix of St. Moritz is always a very special event

talented Matt McGee from the United States. Several big names

and the highlight of three Sundays of racing on the frozen and snow -

recently graced the Engadin Valley with their presence and competed

covered lake of St. Moritz. The 80th edition of the event will take place

in the race: In 2011, Italian Lanfranco “Frankie” Dettori made a special

in February 2019. White Turf St. Moritz has a proven track record and

trip to St. Moritz from Dubai for two races, as did his equally famous

has seen many heroes celebrate. So many, in fact, that it has enjoyed

French colleague Olivier Peslier. However, neither of them has yet

a worldwide reputation for glitz and glamour for decades.

managed to claim victory at the St. Moritz Grand Prix.

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WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

As of the very first race, the St. Moritz Grand Prix has attracted

An ideal platform for sponsors

international attention, with jockeys from all over the world

The coveted flat race was called the Gübelin St. Moritz Grand Prix

taking part. Last year, 30 horses entered the LONGINES Grand Prix

from 1993 to 2016. Switzerland’s most lucrative horse race has

of St. Moritz. Thirteen horses from Switzerland, three from Germany,

always been an ideal platform for sponsors, who all vie for the best

two from the UK, and twelve from France were signed up for the

position. Prestige, fame, international exposure, and spectacular spor-

race.

ting competitions in the beautiful surroundings of St. Moritz are some of the reasons why the competition’s main and title sponsors are so

A global first: horse racing on snow

keen to advertise to an extremely exclusive clientele. With Swiss watch

Another factor in the success of the St. Moritz Grand Prix is its role as

manufacturer LONGINES recently coming on board as title sponsor

a pioneering event: The first race on the lake of St. Moritz was a world

and third White Turf main sponsor, together with Credit Suisse (Swit-

premier, and it soon received international attention. Spectators and

zerland) AG and BMW (Switzerland) AG, the "Rennverein St. Moritz" has

media representatives from the UK particularly loved the event, but

managed to secure the event’s long-term financial future.

only if they had an opportunity to place a bet, of course. The first “tote board” in the form of a simple shack on the lake featured in the second

Over the years, White Turf and the St. Moritz Grand Prix have evol-

year of the race, in 1908. During record-breaking years at the end of

ved into major events requiring impressive logistics. The snow covered

the 90's, bookmakers saw bets of up to 440,000 Swiss francs placed

50–80 cm thick layer of ice on the surface of the 44 metre-deep lake

over the three race days. As you would expect, the queues at the bet-

provides a solid base for the spectacular event. Seventy-five marquees

ting counters for the LONGINES Grand Prix of St. Moritz are huge. No-

spanning a 6,500 m2 space are supplied to accommodate 3,000 VIPs

body wants to miss the thrill of seeing the thoroughbreds gallop past

and a total of 35,000 visitors and equestrian enthusiasts during the

the grandstand at full speed with a tipped horse in the lead.

three days of racing every year.

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SIDE STORIES WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

St. Moritz Grand Prix RYAN’S GIFT WINS ON THREE CONSECUTIVE SUNDAYS In 1992, Hungarian stallion Ryan’s Gift, ridden by Albert Klimscha, came in first on all three Sundays. However, he was disqualified from the race on the first Sunday; the horse had competed in the wrong weight category. He won the sprint on the second Sunday and was victorious by a distance in the St. Moritz Grand Prix a week later.

The finishes in the flat races are particularly exciting.

Head of racing at White Turf ANNINA WIDMER

Ticket system with attractive added value RACING PROGRAMME BROCHURE AND BETTING TOKEN NOW INCLUDED IN TICKETS

Annina Widmer has been responsible for White Turf's racing division since 2017. The veterinarian and enthusiastic race horse owner was a member of the board of the Rennverein St. Moritz. In the course of the reorganization of White Turf, the two areas of racing and event management were split up.

Thus, the organizational structure of White Turf has reached a new degree of professionalization. Annina Widmer has a clear idea of where she wants to lead the event from a racing perspective. “We want to keep the spotlight on the horses and the sport,” says the Aargau native. "White Turf is a traditional event that has become a fixture on the wintry lake of St. Moritz. That is why it is important to me that we create an allround professional environment on a sporting level and in the interests of the horses, owners, trainers, and jockeys," explains Annina Widmer. White Turf is an event that lives from and with nature and is dependent on it. In this context, there is a crucial need for exact planning and animal-friendly implementation. The safety of our participants has top priority.

With her enthusiasm for horse racing and her experience at White Turf, Annina Widmer will continue to support the development of the event and offer the spectators exciting competitions on the natural snow track.

When buying a ticket, each White Turf visitor will now receive a free, informative racing programme brochure. The programme brochure also includes a newly introduced betting token worth two francs. The new features are designed to turn any visit to the horse racing event into an even more intense experience. The betting token is supposed to encourage visitors to place a bet on their personal favourite. Even a small bet can double the excitement. Having a racing programme also offers a chance of winning in the free Prix d’Honneur raffle: Simply detach the upper right corner of the racing programme and place your personal raffle number in the collection box. The draw for the Prix d’Honneur takes place every race Sunday, just after the last race. Attractive prizes and stays in the Engiadin valley are to be won.

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Women in racing FEMALE WINNERS OF THE ST. MORITZ GRAND PRIX Between 1983 and 1995, no less than six women, all amateur jockeys – so-called amazons- rode their horses to victory in the St. Moritz Grand Prix. Fränzi Wirz (1983 winner with Multo Rapido) is sadly no longer with us. After marrying GP St. Moritz winner René Kaderli (who won in 1993 with Mykonos), Meret Düblin (who won in 1986 with Mourski) now succesfully trains racehorses under her married name, Meret Kaderli. Some of them went on to win in St. Moritz. Brigitte Renk, Switzerland's most successful amazon, won the 1989 St. Moritz Grand Prix. And in the following two years the victory went to a woman, as well: Sandra Bühler won with Grand Tour in 1990 and with Last Midnight in 1991. The last woman to have won the St. Moritz Grand Prix was Severine Bottani. Her victory with outsider Treasure Bill in 1995 was completely unexpected. While the favourite came last, gamblers received 51 Swiss francs for every franc placed on the six-year-old gelding from the stables of champion trainer Miro Weiss!

While speaking about female jockeys, Austrian Tuzzi Szenkovits was the first woman to jump into a racing saddle on thr lake of St. Moritz in 1930. At that time, a Neue Zürcher Zeitung reporter wrote: “It seems to us that the modern emancipated woman is trying to conquer territory in which she has no business. Just as one swallow does not make a summer, an Amazon should not make horse racing her profession.” History clearly proved him wrong.

Peter and Dennis Schiergen FATHER & SON Peter and Dennis Schiergen have been a successful team at White Turf St. Moritz for years.

Father Peter Schiergen won the Grand Prix St. Moritz in 1996 as a jockey with Galtee, owned by Alexander Pereira, then director of the Zurich Opera House. In 2005, he succeeded as a trainer with Armand. His son Dennis Schiergen follows in his father's footsteps and now rides successfully as a jockey on the White Turf race Sundays.

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