SWISS TOP EVENTS 2018 by Barino Consulting

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EDITORIAL

DEAR READER, Swiss Top Events members distinguish themselves by setting high quality standards, having a dynamic approach to innovation, their ability to get perfection out of creative chaos, and by their willingness to make and learn from mistakes. They are pursuing powerful visions with all of their energy and are never deterred by obstacles. They see opportunity and inspiration in challenges, not peril. In short, they combine the qualities of a successful decathlete. They are agile, fast, strong, persevering, and versatile. And above all, they are determined to evolve and set new standards. Though working on very different projects, Swiss Top Event creators are cut from the same cloth. Their creativity, passion, and positive energy is palpable at each event. Join us on a tour of this very prestigious league of cultural and sports highlights: Meet the artists and curators of Art Basel and enjoy the extraordinary “Out of the Box” concerts of the Montreux Jazz Festival. Explore the movies and meet the celebrities of Locarno Festival and find out about the “Friends” of Lucerne Festival. Feel the emotions and vibes of the legendary Weltklasse Zürich athletics meeting and learn more about Crans Montana’s Omega European Masters, the PGA tournament with the highest altitude. Experience the fascination of the famous Lauberhorn races in Wengen and finally get inspired by the 111-year-long history of White Turf on Lake St. Moritz. A new edition of the Swiss Top Events Magazine – eight new stories on Switzerland’s finest international cultural and sports events. We hope you will enjoy them.

Christoph Joho

Bild: Marc Wetli (13 Photo)

Swiss Top Events

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

CONTENT

ART BASEL

THE WORLD'S PREMIER SHOW FOR MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART The 48th edition of Art Basel in Basel brought together 291 premier galleries from 35 countries, presenting extraordinary contemporary and Modern works by over 4,000 artists and attracted an attendance of 95,000 visitors.

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL GOES OUT OF THE BOX For its 51st edition, the Montreux Jazz Festival launched the Out of the Box experience: a series of concerts by amazing artists at emblematic sites in the region.

LOCARNO FESTIVAL

A FESTIVAL THAT LOOKS TOWARD THE FUTURE The best way of celebrating the past is to create pathways to the future.

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL The Foundation Friends of Lucerne Festival enables direct access to great musical experiences. In turn, the international classical music festival benefits from their support.

07 EDITORIAL 10 OVERVIEW SWISS TOP EVENTS 2018 12 BIG NUMBERS 90 IMPRESSUM

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

CONTENT

WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

ANOTHER CHAPTER FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS OF ATHLETICS Weltklasse Zürich athletes have been writing sports history at Letzigrund Stadium for almost 90 years. Long-distance runner Mo Farah was the author of the latest chapter last August.

OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS CRANS-MONTANA

THE PERFECT COUPLE – GOLF AND CRANS-MONTANA Is golf a national sport? You would probably get little agreement in response to this question and even some mocking answers.

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

A MYTH BETWEEN TRADITION AND VISION It has often been the case that something big starts off small.

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

111 YEARS OF WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ The international horse races on the frozen St. Moritz lake celebrate their 111th anniversary. What started as a major pioneering achievement and visionary idea from equine sports enthusiasts now holds a significant spot in the international racing calendar.

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ALL EVENTS 14 - 17 JUNE 2018 ART BASEL The New York Times describes it as the “Art Olympics”, Vogue calls it “The most beautiful temporary museum in the world”, the Parisian daily Le Monde hails it “The best in the world”, and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung dubs it “Art at its best”. Art Basel, the premier international art show, attracts and inspires art lovers from across the globe.

29 JUNE - 14 JULY 2018 MONTREUX JA ZZ FESTIVAL Founded in 1967, the Montreux Jazz Festival has become an unmissable event for music fans around the world. Its stages have been graced by all of music’s greats, like Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Radiohead, David Bowie or Prince. Whereas jazz constitutes the festival’s historic core, many other styles of music were quickly integrated, bound together by a common thread of mutual curiosity and enthusiasm.

6 - 9 SEPTEMBER 2018

12 - 14 JANUARY 2018

OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN R ACES

The Omega European Masters takes place in an unparalleled at-

For a few days it puts even the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau in the

mosphere in Crans-Montana. For many years, the tournament has

shade. The Lauberhorn sets the scene for the world's toughest ski

held a special place in the European competition calendar. As well

racing. No other race has generated so many tales of success, chagrin

as being a highly spirited tournament, it also features high in the

or downright disaster. Each section of the 4,480-metre piste, the

hospitality field thanks to its beautiful location and astounding

longest World Cup downhill anywhere, holds its secret. The event

impressions.

draws more than 55,000 enthusiastic spectators each year.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SWISS TOP EVENTS

30 AUGUST 2018 WELTKLASSE ZURICH Weltklasse Zürich is referred to as “Olympic Games in one night” with good reason. Every year, the world’s best athletes of the sport line up to shine in front of the knowledgeable Zurich crowd at Letzigrund Stadium. 25 world records have been set at the legendary meeting.

SUMMER FESTIVAL, 17 AUGUST - 16 SEPTEMBER 2018 LUCERNE FESTIVAL The successful history of 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 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 with its outstanding acoustics was designed by Jean Nouvel and opened in 1998. This building offers breathtaking glimpses of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. Every concert here turns into an unforgettable experience.

4 | 11 | 18 FEBRUARY 2018

1 - 11 AUGUST 2018

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

LOCARNO FESTIVAL

More than 35,000 spectators gather on the frozen lake of St. Moritz for

Throughout its 70-year history, the Festival del film Locarno has occu-

the three racing Sundays in February to witness spectacular events in

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

the most exceptional location and against the magnificent backdrop

August around 170,000 entries, 1,012 press accreditated and 4,000

of the Engadine mountains. Every year, international trainers and jo-

industry professionals converge on the small Swiss-Italian town of

ckeys and thoroughbred horses travel from all over Europe to the

Locarno, right in the heart of Europe, which becomes the world capital

fascination of visitors from all around the world. Together they create

of auteur films for 11 days.

a fantastic atmosphere and thrilling moments.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

BIG NUMBERS

291

Swiss Top Events are beacons of Swiss culture, 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.

GALLERIES FROM 35 COUNTRIES WERE REPRESENTED AT ART BASEL IN BASEL IN 2017.

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.

WITH CHF 111,111

IN PRIZE MONEY, THE LONGINES GRAND PRIX OF ST. MORITZ is the most lucrative horse race in Switzerland.

White Turf

Art Basel

TV CAMERAS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE SPECTACULAR RECORDINGS International Lauberhorn Races

THE MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL OFFERS MORE THAN

380 CONCERTS 250 FREE CONCERTS INCLUDING

IN 8 CHARACTER-FILLED VENUES, FROM NOON TO 5AM.

Montreux Jazz Festival 12

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

BIG NUMBERS

78,600:

VISITORS ATTENDED THE 2017 SUMMER FESTIVAL which is nearly equivalent to the population of Lucerne. Lucerne Festival

1,012

KILOMETERS OF POWER CABLE IS LAID OUT EACH YEAR. International Lauberhorn Races

PRESS ACCREDITATED FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD ATTEND THE LOCARNO FESTIVAL. Locarno Festival

18 HOLE-IN-ONES WERE HIT BY 18 DIFFERENT PLAYERS FROM 1983 UNTIL NOW: No one has hit a hole-in-one twice on this course. Omega European Masters THE FAMOUS LAKESIDE PROMENADE INCLUDES

MORE THAN

15 MILLION

TV VIEWERS WATCH THE COMPETITIONS WORLDWIDE.

Weltklasse Zurich

2,400m

of terraces on the water and offers more than 50 bars and food stands.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Montreux Jazz Festival

THE WORLD'S PREMIER SHOW FOR MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART

T E X T: G i g i K r a cht | P I CT U R E S : A n dr Ã© H e n g s t

Art Basel in Basel 2017, Unlimited, Goran Trbuljak, Galerija Gregor Podnar

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ART BASEL

June 15th-18th, 2017 marked Art Basel’s 18th edition of its UNLIMITED

Sculpture Garden in Washington DC. He has brought to light

sector which presented 76 premier expansively scaled monu-

several exhibitions in his past capacity as Curator at the

mental installations, both physically and metaphorically. Although

Migros Museum in Zurich, Director of the Kunsthalle in St. Gallen

opened at nearly the same period as other large-scale exhibi-

and Director of the Swiss Institute in New York. He has penned

tions, i.e. the Venice Bienniale, the Skulptur Projekte Münster and

his share of contributions for catalogues, art magazines and

Documenta, Unlimited, however, is fundamentally divergent. Some

newspapers such as Parkett, Flash Art, Spike and Kaleidoscope.

were of historical significance, a variance of photographic series,

He is a faculty member at the School of Visual Arts in New York

wall paintings, video projections and live performance art which

and previously a Lecturer at the Master of Arts in Fine Arts at

transcended the rigid traditional art fair formats. This was indeed

the University of the Arts in Zurich. When I asked Jetzer what

truly a breath of fresh air!

intrinsically tickles him his reply was ̒ c utting edge art in spatial platforms!’ Clearly, Mr. Jetzer is superb at breaking boundaries

Speaking of Gianni Jetzer, the independent Swiss curator based

and channeling developments from elsewhere and definitely

in New York, is Curator-at-large at the Hirshhorn Museum and

goes beyond national stereotypes.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ART BASEL

Sue Williamson

Gianni Jetzer

Subodh Gupta

Mac Adams

In Subodh Gupta’s “Cooking the World” (2017) presented by Galle-

which transported human cargo. Between 1525 and 1866, 12.5 million

ria Continua and Hauser & Wirth, the focus lies on the symbolism of

Africans were shipped to the New World of which 10.7 million survived

preparation, food consumption and acceptance. Although trained

the dreaded Middle Passage, stepping off in North America, the Carib-

as a painter and illustrator in his youth, Gupta enjoys experimental

bean, and South America. Sue Williamson studied at the Art Students

installations. In our modern world, the concept of gathering around a

League of New York in the 60’s and earned her Advanced Diploma in

dinner table indicates commonplace intimacy. The strongest bench-

Fine Art from the Michaelis School of Fine Art in Cape Town where

mark of inclusion into a society or community begins with a meal!

she continues to work and reside. In 2007 she received the Visual Arts

Gupta’s installation presented a cooking and eating performance in

Research Award from the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC, in

a shelter in which food was prepared by the artist and consumed

2011 the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Creative Arts Fellowship and

by ‘guests’. All utensils were comprised of aluminum which hanged

in 2013 was a guest curator of the summer academy the Zentrum Paul

delicately from a single transparent fishing monofilament line. All

Klee in Bern, Switzerland. Williamson’s work engages with themes re-

worn vessels had previous owners and histories with hidden narra-

lated to memory and identity formation which convey her investment

tives to tell. Together the utensils showed a collective ritual space,

in the recuperation and interrogation of South African history.

hyperbolic of fates and communal cosmological destinies. Having personally met Gupta during a ‘meal’ at his ‘shelter’, I realised that he

Born on April 15, 1943 in Brynmawr, United Kingdom, the signifi-

is best known for incorporating everyday objects that are ubiquitous

cant installation of Mac Adams falls somewhere between Agatha

throughout his land of birth, India, such as steel tiffin boxes used by

Christie and Anthony Caro. In “The Bathroom” (1978), presented by

millions to carry their lunch as well as thali pans and milk pails. Hence,

gb agency, the room scene provoked an eerie emphasis on the

from ordinary household materials, Gupta has been able to produce

conceptualisation between real time and fiction which has been

sculptures that reflect on the economic transformation of his home-

the underlying theme in his works since the ’70’s. As seen in the

land which relate to his own life and memories. As Subodh Gupta

bathroom, a violent event clearly happened in real time with bub-

states: “they were all part and parcel of my youth, the rituals and cere-

bles forming in the running bathtub, the rotting of the food, and the

monies at Hindi dinner tables!” Having said all that, the food on offer

scent of sweet perfume which perforated the room. Undoubtedly

inside this ‘shelter’ was absolutely delicious! First was lentil soup that

Adams is fascinated by traditional visual effects and how these

was both smoky and tangy. Then came the bhel puri that cracked with

influence a camera in films. According to Adams, “these scenarios

each bite, followed by Khichadi, a brew of lentils and rice, accompa-

are built into a structure in which the viewer’s eye becomes the

nied by a super funky pickled veggie. The main course was a thali plat-

camera but unlike a camera in films, this time is fragmented into

ti with okra, rice and papad with a plump shrimp that I swore I could

non-linear structure forms on the retina.” Mac Adams studied at

have eaten two or three helpings of. The meal ended with a refreshing

the Cardiff School of Art & Design. In 1966 he married an American

saffron yogurt that hid little slices of banana. It was a celebratory meal,

student studying at Cardiff. Adams received his MFA degree from

at least to me!

Rutgers University in New Jersey where he studied with Fluxus artist Bob Watts. In 1969 whilst still a grad student, he partici-

Having met British born artist, Sue Williamson, during a family trip a

pated in the first ‘Soft Art’ exhibition at the New Jersey State

few years back to Cape Town, South Africa, it is with great pleasure

Museum along with Richard Serra, Richard Artschwager and John

to view her recent work, “Messages from the Atlantic Passage” (2017),

Chamberlain amongst others. In 1970 he moved to New York City

presented by Goodman Gallery. Williamson created a large-scale in-

where he lived and worked until 2002. Adams work has been

stallation with chained glass bottles hanged from five fishing nets

acquired by over 35 public museums such as the Museum of

above pools of running water. Each bottle had a hand-engraved data

Modern Art in New York, Center Pompidou in Paris, Brooklyn, La

of a slave i.e. their African name, country of birth, ship, the owner, a

Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art, California Museum, Musee

plantation and the price when available. Each pool represented a ship

D’Art Moderne in Luxembourg and Harvard University.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

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ART BASEL

John Baldessari

Nicholas Cave

Jenny Holzer

81 year old American conceptual artist, John Baldessari, created

with sealed off mouths in dark fabrics. In unspeakable tones, this visual

“Ear Sofa; Nose Sconces with Flowers (in Stage Setting)” (2009/2017),

speaks somberly to our losses and prods us to continue fighting for a

presented by Marian Goodman Gallery and Sprüth Magers, which

better tomorrow. Wait a minute, is Nick Cave talking politics?!? Nicolas

exemplifies Baldessari’s commitment to Surrealism. This installation

Cave lives and works in Brighton, England.

was conceived as ‘contra-Mies’ and clearly the anthropomorphic sofa and sconces seem the antithesis of Bauhaus master’s rectilinear aes-

Geneva born 56 year old, contemporary pop artist, Sylvie Fleury is well

thetic with emphasis on functionality. The massive white leather ear

known for her installations, sculpture and mixed media. Her amazing

resting on its side and the two ceramic white noses mounted upside-

work generally depicts objects with sentimental and aesthetic attach-

down behind the ear created an illusion of sculptural forms as well as

ments in consumer culture as well as the paradigm of the new age. In

functional objects. Simply put, the ear provides a sofa-like surface to

her limited installation, “Skylark” ( 1992), presented by Mehdi Chouakri,

recline on whilst the nostrils of the upended noses can be used as

Karma International, Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac and Salon 94, Fleury

flower vases. Does that make sense to you? It is quite arduous to simply

ponders on various relationships between art and consumerism, gen-

characterise John Baldessari’s varied practice which includes photo-

ders, fetishes, trends and the like. She staged a Buick Skylark which

montage, artist’s books, prints, paintings, film, performance and instal-

she had previously driven for years, ultimately becoming the central fi-

lation, except through his approach of good-humoured irreverence.

gure in her practice. At Unlimited the golden Skylark was transformed

Baldessari is commonly associated with Conceptual or Minimalist art,

from a macho status symbol into a glamorous accessory complete

although he has called this characterisation “a little boring”. Baldessari’s

with sunglasses, newsprint, lipstick, gloves whilst a garage-girl-band

art has been featured in more than 200 solo exhibition in the United

play songs on the tape deck from the 1960’s.

States and Europe and his work influenced Cindy Sherman, David Jenny Holzer is an American neo-conceptual artist based in Hoosick

Salle, Annette Lemieux, Barbara Kruger, amongst others.

Falls, New York whose main focus of her work is the delivery of words Nicholas Edward Cave or commonly known as Nick Cave, is an Austra-

and ideas in public spaces. For her Unlimited installation, “STATEMENT -

lian musician, singer-songwriter, author, screenwriter, composer and

redacted” (2015), presented by Sprüth Magers, which consisted of a

occasional film actor, best known as the frontman of the rock band,

hanging LED sign with four sides installed on a telescoping robotic

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Cave is highly revered for his exuberant

arm which measured two and a half meters in length. Most of her

“soundsuits” which are wearable sculptural forms based on the human

works which are declassified U.S. governmental documents regarding

body, intricately composed of a vibrant mixture of second-hand mate-

military operations and the treatment of detainees in Afghanistan and

rials. These soundsuits are meant to move. Cave and his dancers wear

Iraq. On other occasions, her statements are merely reminders of the

them in shows, transforming them into blurs of colour and sound for

good stuff that we take for granted in life. Holzer belongs to a feminist

performances and video works. At Unlimited, Cave’s monumental in-

branch of artists that popped up around the ’80 which included Bar-

stallation, “Speak Louder” (2011), presented by Jack Shainman Gallery,

bara Kruger, Cindy Sherman, Sarah Charlesworth and Louise Lawler,

refers to the artist’s dictum: “in order to be heard, you have to speak

all brilliant artists in their own rights. Her large-scale installations have

louder!” This particular installation brings to the front seven of Cave’s

included projections on buildings, billboards, etc etc. although text ba-

soundsuits in one ensemble under a shimmering cloak of pearlescent

sed light projections have been her visible signature medium, additio-

buttons bringing individuals as if in a structural landscape evoking

nally creating her epitomes on stone benches, paintings, photographs,

parallels between jazz-funeral processions of New Orleans and his

and a race car for BMW.

soundsuits. In this particular scenario the heads have been silenced

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES ART BASEL

UNLIMITED Presented across 16,000 square meters of exhibition space, Unlimited offer artists and galleries an exciting platform to create and present ambitious large-scale works that transcend the traditional art-fair stand. Unlimited consisted of 76 works and was curated for the sixth year by Gianni Jetzer, curator-at-large at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington D.C. Unlimited, Art Basel in Basel 2017 | © Art Basel

PARCOURS Engaging with Basel’s past and present by weaving artistic interventions into the fabric of the city, this year’s edition of Parcours portrayed a series of intimate experiences, with artists addressing the truths that concern their daily experiences. The eighth edition of Parcours was again sited in the heart of Basel’s historical city center, the Münsterhügel, where 21 artists engaged with an abundance of historically rich scenic sites. This year’s edition was curated for the second year by Samuel Leuenberger, Director and Curator of SALTS in Birsfelden, Switzerland. Parcours, Art Basel in Basel 2017 | neugerriemschneider | Ai Weiwei © Ai Weiwei; Courtesy the artist and neugerriemschneider, Berlin

CONVERSATIONS Conversations, Art Basel’s talks series, brought together leading artists, gallerists, collectors, art historians, curators, museum directors and critics from across the world. Programmed for the third year by Mari Spirito, Founding Director and Curator of Protocinema, Istanbul, the program featured 23 talks and served as a platform for dialogues and discussions on current topics, offering perspectives on producing, collecting, and exhibiting art. Conversations, Art Basel in Basel 2017 | Collector Talk | Private Collections Ascension Linda Yablonsky, Maja Hoffmann, Leon Amitai | © Art Basel

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES ART BASEL

FILM Consisting of 34 film and video works, presented by the show’s participating galleries, Art Basel’s Film program was curated for the third year by Cairo-based film curator Maxa Zoller and was shown at the Stadtkino Basel. Film, Art Basel in Basel 2017 | © Art Basel

THE SELECTION COMMITTEE Each Art Basel show has its own selection committee, a panel consisting of esteemed international gallerists. During a very intensive process, each applicant is thoroughly reviewed by the relevant selection committee according to strict standards for excellence established by Art Basel. Each year is a new opportunity for galleries to participate; every applicant undergoes the identical review process and is given the same consideration, whether they have previously applied or shown at Art Basel, or not. Galleries, Art Basel in Basel 2017 | Galerie Eva Presenhuber | © Art Basel

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ADVERTORIAL

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

THE BIG SECRET As one might expect, the basic ingredients are egg whites, sugar

butter and Swiss free-range eggs are used, and no artificial addi-

and almonds for the macaroons, and cocoa, cream and butter for

tives or colourings.

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SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL GOES OUT OF THE BOX

For its 51st edition, the Montreux Jazz Festival launched the Out of the Box experience: a series of concerts by amazing artists at emblematic sites in the region.

T E X T: St eve R i e s e n | P I CT U R E S : Daniel Balmat, Marc Ducrest, Lionel Flusin, Adam Hart, Emilien Itim, SÃ©bastien Toulorge

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

The Montreux Jazz Festival has always played host to planetary

This desire to encourage curiosity is reflected in Out of the Box

artists. Prince, Marvin Gaye, Leonard Cohen, Nina Simone: their

and its selection of artists whose talents defy categorization

landmark concerts have contributed to constructing its legend.

and unusual spaces. During the Festival, there were eleven

But in parallel, the Festival has always loved sharing the disco-

evenings in four emblematic edifices of the region: the Abbaye

very of well-kept secrets. Stevie Ray Vaughan springs to mind

de Saint-Maurice, Chillon Castle, the Fairmont Le Montreux

– unknown at the time, he was noticed by David Bowie when he

Palace, and Vevey’s Hôtel des Trois Couronnes.

first visited in 1982. Or Michael Kiwanuka, invited to the free Montreux Jazz Café venue in 2012, before being placed on the stage of the Auditorium Stravinski the very next day.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Ms. Lauryn Hill, Auditorium Stravinski, July 6th, 2017

Organ, violin, and electronic music within historic walls

On July 6th, the Montreux energy was in full swing: Ms. Lauryn Hill served up a memorable show at the Auditorium Stravinski, while the public at the Montreux Jazz Lab was belting out “Lost on You”, the planetary hit by singer LP. At the same instant, a few kilometers away, organ and violin were enhancing the sumptuous decor of the Abbaye de Saint-Maurice. A serene, meditative ambiance. Tobias Preisig and Stefan Rusconi enchanted a speechless, transported audience. At the back of the room, a few canons attended this timeless spectacle in which electronic sounds were side by side with the centennial stones of one of the oldest abbeys in Europe. This event was one of the highlights made possible by the uniqueness of Out of the Box. Mathieu Jaton, CEO of the Montreux Jazz Festival, explains: “We are always trying to make our Festival stand out. With Out of the Box, we offer a new experience to the public and provide an intimate connection with the artist.”

Tobias Preisig, church of the Abbaye de Saint-Maurice, July 6th, 2017

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Hospitality at the heart of the Festival

showcase, the artists can tell that we respect their music. For example, Federico Albanese came up to thank me after his concert at

Making use of these emblematic regional sites is also a nod to the

the Palace. He never would have thought he could play Montreux,

Festival’s history. It is no coincidence that two hotels are included

because his music is not sized for large festivals.”

in the four Out of the Box locations. When he created the Festival in 1967, Claude Nobs was an employee of the Montreux Tourist

“A good shot of jazz”

Office. Hospitality is still at the heart of the Festival with his successor, Mathieu Jaton, having studied at the Ecole hôtelière. Artists

Except for RY X, all the artists at the Palace were performing for the

frequently stay a few extra days in town to enjoy the Festival’s

first time at Montreux. This was the case, for example, of French sin-

warm welcome. “Once again this edition, artists like Sam Smith

ger Juliette Armanet: “My father is a jazz pianist. He phoned me a

and Woodkid visited Montreux, even though they were not on the

few minutes before the concert. He was moved. For him, for me, this

programme”, Mathieu Jaton explains.

Festival means a lot.” After her concert, she took part in the jam sessions at the Jazz Club. “I chatted with Quincy Jones! My buddies from

Inviting the public into these places steeped in history and le-

Paradis and La Femme were playing that evening, but for me, expe-

gendary guests was therefore highly symbolic. For the first time,

riencing my Montreux premier, I was dreaming of a good shot of jazz.”

the ‘Salon beige’ at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace opened its doors to the Festival. For the programmers, this was the occasion to

Unique encounters, intimate performances, discoveries, bridges

spotlight singular talents in an intimate space adapted to their art.

between genres: the first edition of Out of the Box lived up to its

Mathieu Jaton points out: “When they are offered a custom-made

promises. There will be many more surprises next year.

Tom Jones, Auditorium Stravinski, July 7th, 2017

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Jam session QUINCY JONES

Quincy Jones visits the Montreux Jazz Festival every year. At the 51st edition, he was thrilled to meet up with his friend Sam Smith. They spent a memorable evening together at a jam session during which the English singer took the microphone for an improvisation with a kora player.

Piano maestro CHILLY GONZALES Not only happy to play at the Auditorium Stravinski on the same evening as Herbie Hancock, mesmerizing piano maestro Chilly Gonzales delighted the Festival by giving a workshop, giving a special concert in the Festival’s founder Chalet for the national radio, and participating in a TV show. Enjoy this very special 1 hour live session on the official Youtube channel of the Festival!

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

Auditorium Stravinski LAURYN HILL

On July 6th, Ms. Lauryn Hill served up a memorable performance at the Auditorium Stravinski, during which she paid tribute to Nina Simone by singing “Feeling Good”. Ms. Hill even improvised a version of the Jacques Brel classic “Ne Me Quitte Pas”, like Nina Simone sang it at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1968.

Dieter Meier and Boris Blank YELLO In the Montreux Jazz Lab, on July 12th, the duo Yello gave their first concert in Switzerland! This tandem made up of Dieter Meier and Boris Blank authored one of the most beautiful adventures in the history of Swiss music. They have also deeply influenced the international music scene. Photo : Yello, © 2017 – FFJM Mehdi Benkler

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

BMW X3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THE JOY OF ADVENTURE. BMW has sold over 1.5 million of its first- and second-generation BMW X3 vehicles. The third generation is now ready to roll â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and it has more character than ever. On and off the road.

When the Bavarian car manufacturer laun-

on to this, it is designed to deliver a much

ched the X3 back in 2003, it single-handed-

sportier ride than its predecessors. Which

ly invented the compact SAV class. That's

is why BMW has put the finishing touch on

right, SAV. As in sports activity vehicle

the series with the first ever M Performance

and not SUV (sports utility vehicle). This is

model for the X3: The X3 M40i. This model

because a BMW is all about driving plea-

delivers an impressive 360 hp, accelerates

sure, even when it's taken off-road. The Mu-

from 0 to 100 in 4.8 seconds, and can easily,

nich-based carmaker leaves utility vehicles

if somewhat uselessly, reach 250 km/h. Too

to the competition. And they have good

sporty? No problem. In addition to the M40i,

reason to: Over the past 14 years, more than

there is a conventional X3 30i petrol model.

1.5 million X3 vehicles have rolled off the

This two-litre, four-cylinder version delivers

production line into the arms of drivers the

252 hp and is currently the only conventio-

world over.

nal petrol version. There are also two diesel variants: The 20d with four cylinders and

Now, the third generation is in the star-

190 hp, and the 30d with six cylinders and

ting blocks. BMW has one clear goal here:

265 hp. BMW will be launching another

To continue the X3 success story in a more

four-cylinder petrol version in spring 2018.

competitive environment. It goes without

The X3 20i will deliver 184 hp. Without the

saying that the new generation delivers

M-logo, the new X3 achieves top speeds of

more power, consumes less and features

between 213 and 240 km/h. More import-

new assistants. But more importantly, it has

antly though, the small diesel model has

an even more confident look and feel. The

an average fuel consumption of 5.0 litres in

X3 shows its muscles and has character. Its

best-case scenarios.

typical proportions feature the very short front and rear overhangs, which emphasise

To achieve these kinds of values, the Munich

the perfect 50:50 weight distribution bet-

engineers have been systematically develo-

ween front and rear axle. At the front, the

ping their BMW EfficientDynamics strategy:

three-dimensional double kidney grille un-

In addition to optimising drive systems for

derscores the dynamic driving ability. At the

efficient consumption, BMW has made gre-

rear, the optional full LED rear lights, down-

at progress in light-weight design. By using

ward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust

more aluminium components, the compa-

pipes give the car a powerful finish.

ny has made the new generation up to 55 kilograms lighter than the respective pre-

With a largely unchanged format, the

decessor models. What's more, the new

third-generation X3 looks more athletic

BMW X3 boasts a class-leading drag coeffi-

and is also 55 kilograms lighter. In additi-

cient of Cw = 0.29.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ADVERTORIAL

While BMW took an evolutionary approach

– much to the delight of the Munich-based

to the design, its progress in the interior

car manufacturer. But that's not the only

is plain to see. And that's not just becau-

change that the X3 hopes will take it on a

se there is more storage or because the

fast track past the competition. In addition

rear back rests are split into three sections,

to highlighting the sporty side of the off-ro-

enabling the driver to more flexibly change

ad vehicle, BMW is also keen to place more

between the minimum 550 and maximum

emphasis on its frugal nature. Which is why

1,600 litres of boot storage capacity in the

the company plans to release a plug-in vari-

cargo position. It is primarily because the

ant and has also promised to launch a fully

X3 has borrowed a lot from the 5 Series and

electric model for the first time ever.

7 Series and is now available, for example, with an animated cockpit and large touch-

And before we forget: As with all mem-

screen with gesture control. BMW has even

bers of the BMW X-family, the X3 delivers

adopted the smartphone-like Display Key.

outstanding driving characteristics on all terrain thanks to its all-wheel drive and is

The X3 has also gained ground with its assi-

ready for any adventure. Its ground clearan-

stance systems. As with the 5 Series and the

ce of 204 millimetres and fording depth of

7 Series, the X3 can now almost drive au-

500 millimetres keep the X3 safely on track

tonomously in heavy traffic on motorways

whether you're driving on worn out gravel

thanks to the BMW Personal Co-Pilot. It can

or sand paths, churned-up subsoil, through

also automatically change lanes for the first

rivers or deep snow – it’s also pretty good

time. No other SUV in this class can do this

in the city.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

A FESTIVAL THAT LOOKS TOWARD THE FUTURE T E X T: L o r e nzo B u cce ll a | P I CT U R E S : Â© L o c a r n o F e s t i v a l

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LOCARNO FESTIVAL

The best way of celebrating the past is to create pathways

new starting points for the future: from the eagerly awaited

to the future. The truth of that idea has certainly hit home in

PalaCinema, which adds three state-of-the-art theaters to the

Locarno, where a Festival noted for being young in spirit did

Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portfolio of screening venues, to the renovation of

not simply mark its 70 th birthday with the usual raft of self-

the historic GranRex Auditorium Leopard Club cinema, as well

congratulatory festivities has instead taken advantage of the

as a series of new leisure and ancillary facilities. Alongside

occasion to give fresh impetus to its image for the future.

laRotonda, the Festival village, this year saw the opening

Naturally the beating heart of the event remains the remark-

of Locarno Talks la Mobiliare, a new space for meetings and

able open-air theater and forum that is the Piazza Grande, with

debates in the refurbished Forum, while the entertainment

the magic of its giant screen. But for this major anniversary the

offering was expanded by the Locarno Garden la Mobiliare, the

Festival has also redrawn the map of its own borders and focal

new place to relax after the movies, through the evening and

spaces, inaugurating a series of infrastructures that represent

into the night.

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FESTIVAL DEL FILM LOCARNO LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Adrien Brody, Leopard Club Award 2017

These new factors have enhanced the Locarno experience even

so powerful that it can affect the most experienced of perform-

further, turning it into a truly festive occasion before, during and

ers: even Adrien Brody, whose title role in Roman Polanski’s The

after the screenings. Locarno is also an event that brings culture

Pianist made him the youngest ever winner of the Oscar for Best

before a mass audience, as seen in the massive applause given

Actor. Coming on stage to give a speech of thanks for the Leopard

by the Piazza Grande public to some of the filmmakers whose

Club Award, Brody was so overcome by emotion that for a moment

high-profile achievements in contemporary cinema began right

the big star forgot his lines, revealing a very human sincerity of

here on the shores of Lake Maggiore. One such is American direc-

feeling.

tor Todd Haynes, the recipient of this year’s Pardo d’onore Manor career award. The strength of his feelings about returning to the

The Many Spirits Inside Of Locarno

place where he presented his debut feature Poison 26 years ago was palpable, and it was an emotion shared by all those present

There was another special evening that showed just how much

who, in the name of their love of cinema, feel the extent of the

the Locarno Festival, under the artistic direction of Carlo Chatrian,

affection that binds the true protagonists of the cinema to their

loves cinema in its every shape and form. In the space of a few

audience. Indeed the spell cast by Piazza Grande when all of its

minutes a tribute to one of the most radical and anti-conven-

eight thousand seats are occupied by passionate movie fans is

tional auteur filmmakers (Jean-Marie Straub) was followed by

Mathieu Kassovitz, Excellence Award Moët & Chandon 2017 34

Carlo Chatrian, Artistic Director and Todd Haynes, Pardo d’onore Manor 2017

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Above: Alain Berset, Swiss Federal Councillor, MInister of Culture Down: Wang Bing, winner of Pardo d’oro

Nastassja Kinski on the red carpet

the screening of such classic mainstream fare as the spy thriller

Jacques Tourneur, the Master of Genre

Atomic Blonde, starring Charlize Theron or the film Big Sick, winner of the Prix du Public UBS. The pairing of such polar opposites is

New films aware of their links with the past, and old films finding

not based simply on a desire to be provocative at all costs, but

new life in the present – a two-way connection that has rarely been

on the firm conviction that contradictions can be fertile cata-

showcased so impressively as in this year’s Retrospective, dedi-

lysts, where there is a will to create a conversation between works

cated to cult director Jacques Tourneur. Few filmmakers have mo-

apparently remote from each other. Movies that are miles apart

ved so effectively between American and European cinema, ex-

not just in their geography of origin, but in terms of period,

ploring and re-inventing film genres. Which in turn explains why

setting and genre: as usual discovery was the keynote for many of

such crowds of festival-goers were keen to rediscover the movie

the younger filmmakers present in the Concorso internazionale,

gems which have made Tourneur a benchmark figure for the rein-

but at the same time the big event in the competition was a film

terpretations of genre filmmaking that are still such an important

which came out of the past and had to wait until today before it

part of world cinema today. As an extra ingredient in this mix bet-

could see the light. La telenovela errante, left unfinished in the

ween past and present, in Locarno one of Tourneur’s masterpieces,

1990s by the great Chilean director Raúl Ruiz, was at last given its

Cat People, was not only screened alongside Paul Schrader’s 1982

world premiere after being found again and re-edited.

remake but also enhanced by the presence of movie icon Nastassja Kinski, the female lead in the later film.

A Festival For The Audience As always the star was not invited to Locarno just for the red carpet treatment, but in recognition of her status as a key witness to the moviemaking process and in film history. The same goes for other personalities, from Fanny Ardant to Iran’s Golshifteh Farahani, who not only came here to present their latest films, but also found the time to meet with the audience at close quarters. The Locarno audience: the moviegoers who, when all is said and done, are the real stars of the show, with no less than 174,000 in attendance over the 11 days of the Festival. The numbers show that a story that began 70 festivals ago still has a firm foundation for building an even brighter future.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Festival village laROTONDA The official Festival village is an attractive and relaxing breathing space that has become almost a festival within the festival. The many stands and stalls and the Grand Hotel Swisscom offer a wide range of food and drink, plus concerts, radio sound stages and all kinds of entertainment for anyone passing through Locarno before or after a movie.

Pavilion LOCARNO GARDEN LA MOBILIARE A bright and colorful meeting place, nestling in the heart of the old city. This was one of the major new features marking the 70th anniversary Festival: a garden offering a dazzling range of drinks and attractions, inside and around the spectacular pavilion What If of Swiss Mobiliar, wich represents the Inspiration and Creativity and has been created by the Swiss artist Kerim Seiler. 36

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES LOCARNO FESTIVAL

Movies LOCARNO KIDS

Movies screened with kids in mind, bringing up the Festival-goers of the future. The new sidebar Locarno Kids has opened up another frontier at Locarno. Screenings are scheduled in the mornings for the younger audience, with creative workshops held in the afternoons to allow kids to discover all the inside secrets behind the movie machine.

GranRex theater GRANREX LOCARNO, THE BEST OF OLD AND NEW One of the Locarno Festival’s historic venues was restored to its former splendor thanks to a refurbishment scheme that respects tradition while introducing state-of-the-art technology. Re-opened for Locarno70, the GranRex theater is emblematic of Locarno’s clearest mission: loyal to its past, but always open and ready to embrace the challenges of the future. GranRex.ch

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Â© Stefan Deuber/Lucerne Festival

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

The Foundation Friends of Lucerne Festival enables direct access to great musical experiences. In turn, the international classical music festival benefits from their support. T E X T: G e o r g R u di g e r | P I CT U R E S : St e f a n D e ub e r, M a n u e l a J a n s , P at r i ck H ürlim a n n , P e t e r F i s ch li , B e n e dik t D in k h a u s e r, P r i s ka Ke t t e r e r, G e of f r oy S ch i e d

A violin lies in the grass. Six people sneak up, stretching their

program “NOMOZART.” As a Young Performance production, it

muscles and sliding over the artificial turf. Gradually, the

is tailored for children and youths. Through access to the dress

sounds turn into music, word fragments are mixed in, and a

rehearsal today and a meet-up session with Maged Mohamed,

double bass is strummed. Over five weeks, the young musici-

only Friends of Lucerne Festival have the privilege of seeing this

ans — all alumni of the Lucerne Festival Academy — along with

fascinating production before its public premiere the next day.

the choreographer Maged Mohamed put together the one-hour

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

Switzerland, the Friends of Lucerne Festival who come from the USA, Israel, Great Britain, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, and

After the performance, a few audience members are brought on-

Japan comprise among the largest groups of this non-profit or-

stage by the dancing musicians and themselves become musical-

ganization. The Friends (over 1,000 worldwide) are not only impor-

ly involved, playing whistles and flutes. Each of them gets a solo

tant as voices and ambassadors for this international festival; they

before all take part in the groove of the music, playing with the

are highly significant in a financial sense as well, since they fund

professionals. One of the flute players is Walter Häcki (75). A reti-

8% of Lucerne Festival’s entire budget through their contributions.

red doctor and politician, he has been a member of the Friends of

Every Friend is proud to belong and to be able to provide sustain-

Lucerne Festival for twenty years. Häcki values the access he has to

able support for one of the world’s leading classical music festivals.

the artists, which is a benefit of his membership. “Spending time

Through this independent financing, numerous Friends and cor-

with the Lucerne Festival Orchestra in 2005, conducted by Clau-

porate sponsors have been vital to the survival of Lucerne Festival

dio Abbado, was an unforgettable experience. After the incredible

since it began nearly 80 years ago.

concert, we sat with Claudio at the bar. I had never seen the great maestro in such a relaxed and open way.” Exclusivity; glimpses behind the scenes; visits to rehearsals; concert trips; chats with mu-

Voices and Ambassadors

sicians and conductors; and a valuable international networking platform: these are the many advantages that make being part of

Every fifth concert ticket to the Summer Festival is purchased by

the Friends of Lucerne Festival so appealing. Currently, there are

the Friends. “They have access to advanced ticket sales options and

over 600 memberships, which range across various categories,

learn about the highlights and artistic planning before the press

from Bronze (1,500 CHF per year) to Patron (starting at 100,000 CHF

does,” says Valentina Rota, Executive Director of the Foundation Fri-

per year). In addition to the approximately 380 memberships in

ends of Lucerne Festival. Back in 1938, when what was then known

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Driven by intelligence. And max. 680 hp. Porsche E-Performance models. Hybrid technology and sportiness? For us, these are no contradiction; they go hand in hand. We test the E-Performance concept on the race track and transfer it to the road in the form of the E-Hybrid models. With a maximum system power of up to 680 hp and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. Find out more at www.porsche.ch/e-performance

Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo: system power: 550 kW (680 hp). Standardized fuel consumption: 3.0 l/100 km. Electric power consumption: 17.6 kWh/100 km. Petrol equivalent: 4.9 l/km. CO2 emissions: 69 g/km. CO2 emissions from fuel and electric power use: 40 g/km. Mean CO2 value for all vehicle models on sale in Switzerland: 133 g/km. Energy efficiency category: E.

LUCERNE FESTIVAL

as the Internationalen Musikfestwochen Luzern was founded, the city already had a group of music lovers who promoted the Festival. The Foundation Friends of Lucerne Festival was initiated in 1966 to give this loose circle of supporters a more permanent form, to develop international presence, and to enhance the Festival's reputation. The American Friends of Lucerne Festival, which is headquartered in New York, has existed for fifteen years and is the largest and most important international organization for the

Friends of Lucerne Festival. Every year, Valentina Rota organizes glamorous fundraising galas at a selected exclusive location, such

from left to right: Valentina Rota, Marina Cavallari, Claudia Cavallari

as Carnegie Hall or the Morgan Library & Museum, in order to attract new patrons. The American Friends award scholarships for American participants in the Lucerne Festival Academy, which

Next Generations

focuses primarily on contemporary music. “The scholarship winners and their supporters usually get to know each other at an event

On occasion, the Young Friends of Lucerne Festival (up to 39 years of

organized by us, so that a very personal relationship can develop

age) stop by. Marina Cavallari is responsible for this group of around

between them,” says the 39-year-old Director of Development of

seventy individuals: “We also meet up outside the context of the

the American Friends. As Chairman of the Lucerne Festival Foun-

Festival. We go to the theater together or out to drink a beer. I spend

dation and the Foundation Friends of Lucerne Festival, Hubert

more time with them during the Festival than with my family,” the

Achermann, 66, values the role of host that his position entails:

27-year-old remarks with a laugh. The youngest generation is also

“I can feel the sense of great enthusiasm among the Friends and

involved in Lucerne. At Patricia Kopatchinskaja’s concert in the KKL’s

value the support that we see with this circle. These friendships

Terrace Hall, many children made themselves comfortable on cus-

are exceptionally rewarding on a personal level as well.” In order to

hions and listened attentively to the renowned violinist as she imit-

maintain them, Valentina Rota’s three-person, five-language team

ated the sounds of animals on her instrument. Following this inter-

personally takes care of the needs of every member of the Festival

active concert, they proceeded into the large concert hall with their

Friends throughout the year and each evening when the Festival is

parents. If the parents become members of the newly founded circle

underway. The meeting place for the Friends is the Festival Lounge

of Little Friends, then their children will in turn have exposure to major

in the KKL foyer, where the members have a space exclusively to

stars and thrilling music. The excitement level was clearly high when

themselves. They can enjoy a drink here before or after the concert,

Patricia Kopatchinskaja said goodbye with the slow movement from

discuss and share their musical experiences, and right away feel at

György Ligeti's Violin Concerto. And the ensuing treat of lemonade also

home – even if they have travelled from as far away as Japan.

brought a sense of pleasure.

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SIDE STORIES LUCERNE FESTIVAL

Vienna Philharmonic SOPHIE DARTIGALONGUE The Vienna Philharmonic’s annual residency in Lucerne is one of the Festival’s mainstays. Since 2016 the Vienna Philharmonic, which had long been an all-male ensemble, for the first time included a female woodwind principal in its ranks: the French bassoonist Sophie Dartigalongue. This year, the Philharmonic celebrates not only its 175th anniversary but the 60 th anniversary of its Lucerne debut.

Doubly Talented DANIEL BARENBOIM

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Daniel Barenboim is doubly talented. He has already appeared at Lucerne Festival as a pianist 11 times and has been on the conductor’s podium no fewer than 56 times. During the 2017 Summer Festival, he joined the soloist of the evening, Martha Argerich, at the piano to play duets. They have been friends since their days in kindergarten, where they spent a lot of time together.

SIDE STORIES LUCERNE FESTIVAL

Musicians KIRSTY HILTON

The Lucerne Festival Orchestra comprises musicians from 21 nations and has been led by Riccardo Chailly since 2016. Kirsty Hilton, a violinist from Australia and Mizuho Yoshii-Smith, an oboist from Japan, have had to travel the farthest from their countries.

Instrumentation LUCERNE FESTIVAL ACADEMY Every summer, the Festival’s talent scout agency, the Lucerne Festival Academy, offers around 135 young musicians from around the world a platform to study new music. The 2017 Summer Festival gave the Swiss premiere of Friedrich Cerha’s Spiegel I-VII, a powerful orchestral cycle. The instrumentation called for no fewer than 18 timpani.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

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

Markus Binkert

to present and promote Switzerland to the rest of the world as a modern, dynamic country while at the same time underscoring its cultural, sporting and social appeal and variety. As part of its endeavours to this end, SWISS supports these top events in Switzerland with their international flair. These joint marketing activities are intended to strengthen Switzerlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image abroad in a targeted way. In Swiss Top Events, SWISS has found a partner that ideally embodies the values of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national airline. Like Swiss Top Events, SWISS carries a bit of home into the big wide world.

We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration! Markus Binkert Chief Commercial Officer

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ADVERTORIAL

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new Bombardier C Series aircraft and make your SWISS Economy

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flights even more personal and enjoyable with optional SWISS Choice

partner for your worldwide travels.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Gemeinsam für die Sicherheit, den Fortschritt und die Zukunft unserer Gesellschaft.

8’700 engagierte und spezialisierte RUAG Mitarbeitende aus 48 Nationen.

RUAG verfügt zu Land, in der Luft und im Weltraum über herausragende Technologiekompetenzen. Rund 8’700 engagierte und kompetente Mitarbeitende aus 48 Nationen setzen sich für die Sicherheit und den Fortschritt unserer Gesellschaft ein. RUAG ist sowohl in Europa als auch in den USA einer der führenden Zulieferer für die Raumfahrt. Das Unternehmen entwickelt und produziert Produkte für den Einsatz an Bord von Satelliten und Trägerraketen.

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Lugano, delicatessen in Via Pessina (photo: © Christof Sonderegger)

FOOD AND THE CITY Some secret local culinary tips in Swiss towns and cities

Four languages, 26 cantons – remote mountain

lution. The tour winds its way from fish to meat and

valleys, international towns and cities: very few

from vegetables to seafood – all to be found in the

countries are as diverse as Switzerland. Nowhere

hip district of Zurich-West.

is this as strikingly evident as in Helvetian cuisine. The addition of foreign influences over the years

Lausanne, the pearl on Lake Geneva, is staging a ran-

has given rise to a gourmet paradise – especially in

ge of culinary events from April to October under

Swiss towns and cities.

the label “Lausanne à table” : the events span a food truck festival, micro beer evenings and picnics in the

One look at the dishes being served in Zurich’s re-

park. Lausanne is also one of the few cities that real-

staurants is impressive testimony to just how much

ly deserves being referred to as a city of wines. You

Swiss cuisine has to offer. Gourmets can experience

become aware of it after travelling there through the

this firsthand on the Zurich Food Tour in the coun-

wine terraces of Lavaux – which number among the

try’s biggest city. It not only familiarises participants

UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lausanne is marking

with Zurich’s wining and dining culture – it also re-

the occasion by opening its wine cellars in the centre

veals the secrets behind the Zurich gastronomy revo-

of the city, for example. A votre santé!

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SWITZERLAND TOURISM

Zurich, Food Tour (photo: © David Biedert)

Lugano, the town far down in Switzerland’s south, wins out on account of its laid-back ambience. Everything is a little more relaxed down here. Lugano is the perfect place to indulge in sheer relaxation – over an espresso under palm trees, for example. Connoisseurs on the Food & Wine Tour are accompanied by a Lugano native who introduces them to the delights of Ticino cuisine. Participants find out a lot about Lugano, its inhabitants – the Luganesi – and their eating habits. And such an event naturally must include Ticino’s hallmark wine – Merlot. Last but not least, Chur plays a key role on Switzerland’s menu. The oldest town in the country is also the gate to the mountain world of Graubünden. The Chur FoodTrail takes the whole family on an entertaining scavenger hut, on which the winner who solves the riddle at one of the sampling stations is rewarded with a regional delicacy. Lausanne à table! (photo: © Mathieu Voisard)

Yet more culinary diversity is to be found at one of the Swiss food festivals. These firmly established major events offer visitors exotic dishes ranging from dim sum to down-to-earth and thoroughly Swiss rösti.

2018 Swiss food festivals: www.MySwitzerland.com/foodfestivals

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ANOTHER CHAPTER FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS OF ATHLETICS

Weltklasse ZĂźrich athletes have been writing sports history at Letzigrund Stadium for almost 90 years. Long-distance runner Mo Farah was the author of the latest chapter

last August. The four-time Olympic champion and six-time world champion concluded his track career with one final 5000m race. And what a race it was!

T E X T: Roland Hirsbrunner | P I CT U R E S : U r s J a u d a s , Va l e r i a n o di D o m e n i co

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WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

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WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

“He is choosing one of the greatest stadiums to compete in, one

two major international titles at the 2014 European Athletics Cham-

of the greatest crowds to compete in front of – an exceptionally

pionships and broke the 13-minute barrier for the first time.

knowledgeable crowd.” This is how TV commentator Steve Cram introduced the men’s 5,000m race at 21:14 on August 24th 2017.

Now, Farah returned to "one of the greatest stadiums to compete

Cram, a former 1,500m record holder and a running legend himself,

in" to bow out of his track career. His farewell appearance hap-

was about to cover four-time Olympic and six-time world champion

pened to be the IAAF Diamond League final and would there-

Mo Farah’s farewell track race for TV viewers around the world. He

fore be a highly competitive affair – a genuine post-champion-

and 25,000 spectators at Letzigrund Stadium were in for a special

ship showdown featuring the world's best runners, including his

athletics treat.

Ethiopian rival Muktar Edris.

The words Cram used to send his fellow countryman off on the

Barely 13 minutes later, Mo Farah was entering the home stretch

last twelve and a half laps of his track career, could not have been

with four competitors in tow at awe-inspiring speed. Steve Cram

more fitting. Only a few days earlier, Farah had to accept one of few

and everyone else at Letzigrund Stadium were on their feet cheer-

athletic disappointments in front of his home crowd at the world

ing him on. Farah fought fiercely up to the last metre, the last

championships. After triumphing in the London 10,000m, he was

centimetre, winning the race in a heart-stopping finish and by a

beaten on the last metres of the 5,000m final by Muktar Edris, and

mere four hundredth of a second ahead of world champion Muktar

thus had to be content with a silver medal for once. Before that,

Edris. While Mo Farah celebrated his victory with his trademark

Farah had remained undefeated in twelve major championship

"Mobot", Steve Cram was rejoicing at the star’s final track triumph:

races. Letzigrund Stadium was the stage on which he had claimed

"What a way to end; maybe his closest of all of his great victories."

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

First-class service for the athletes As is often the case, a sports competition had provided a story-

Top professionals like Mo Farah thank the Zurich team’s efforts

line even a thriller writer might find hard to concoct. And while

with unforgettable appearances, both on and off the track. Two

the Weltklasse Zürich promoters had no influence on how much

days prior the meeting, Farah also participated in Weltklasse

drama and suspense Farah’s farewell race would involve, they did

Zürich’s traditional kids event “Jugend trainiert mit Weltklasse”.

their utmost to provide the best possible setting. They always do,

It was a memorable experience both for the 500 kids who had

and it is therefore not by chance that the world’s athletics stars keep

been lucky enough to secure a spot, and for their coach Farah: He

coming back to enrapture the Zurich audience with top performances.

clearly enjoyed the training session with the athletes of tomorrow.

And it is no coincidence that Mo Farah selected the Weltklasse

Two days later, when he was

Zürich 5,000m for his last track competition. Weltklasse Zürich is considered the most significant and prestigious athletics meeting in the world. Athletes – this year, the cast included 14 reigning Olympic and 17 new world champions – not only praise the unique atmosphere at the sold-out Letzigrund Stadium during the competition, but also the splendid organisation of the event and the world-class service they enjoy throughout their stay in Zurich. Weltklasse Zürich is known in particular for offering outstanding and diverse foods at its legendary athletes’ buffet. Food is a crucial

ONE OF THE GREATEST CROWDS TO COMPETE IN FRONT OF

raising a glass to the success of the meeting with Co-Meeting Director Christoph Joho, Mo Farah was still praising the kids and the amazing Weltklasse Zürich experience. And he promised not to forget this farewell appearance which happened to take place on the fifth birthday of his twin daughters. The birthday

factor for athletes who often travel from competition to competition

party had to be postponed, but

and from hotel to hotel for months on end. Therefore, they appreciate

the father of five was no doubt in a celebratory mood when he joined

the fact that the promoters in Zurich also attach great importance to

his daughters a day later. The next edition of Weltklasse Zürich will

details, such as a special laundry service, for instance.

be held on Thursday, August 30 th 2018.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

Zurich Main Station STREET ATHLETICS AT ITS BEST New innovative competitive formats are in high demand in the traditional sport of athletics. The Zurich meeting has taken a leading role in this regard. Weltklasse Zürich at Zurich Main station on the eve of the competitions at Letzigrund Stadium has long been established as one of the world’s best street athletics events. The pole vault competition is held in a temporary arena at the majestic hall of Zurich’s train station and offers thousands of fans and passers-by the opportunity to experience the fascination of this spectacular athletics discipline from up close. Next edition: Wednesday, August 29, 2018.

Amy Macdonald CLOSING SHOW WITH SPECIAL GUESTS Weltklasse Zürich always celebrates the athletes’ performances at Letzigrund Stadium in an exciting closing show, featuring a visual recap of the night and fireworks. In 2017, British singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald concluded the evening with a number of songs. In previous years, Melanie C, Ella Henderson, or Bastian Baker had been the highlights of the traditional closing show.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES WELTKLASSE ZÜRICH

Kids Event TRAINING SESSION WITH FAMOUS ATHLETES Every year, more than 1,000 kids enjoy a training session with Olympic champions, world champions and Swiss stars. There are always a number of sessions in various towns across German-speaking Switzerland. The stars of Weltklasse Zürich become coaches for the athletes of tomorrow, providing them with tips, tricks, and an unforgettable experience. Next edition: Thursday, August 30th 2018.

Promoting Young Talents 145,000 KIDS AT THE UBS KIDS CUP Weltklasse Zürich also organises the UBS Kids Cup, the country’s largest series promoting young athletes. Last summer, 145,000 children participated in events throughout Switzerland. 540 qualify for the national final at Letzigrund Stadium two days after Weltklasse Zürich. National and international stars support the young talents on their big day. Lord Sebastian Coe, President of the International Track & Field Association IAAF, described the UBS Kids Cup as “the best athletics project for the next generation that I have ever seen.”

IAAF Diamond League SEASON FINAL IN ZURICH Weltklasse Zürich has a very special status in the world of athletics. The meeting at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium and the AG Memorial Van Damme in Brussels stage the two IAAF Diamond League finals. The most prestigious athletics series includes 14 events. In Zurich, the best athletes of the season compete for 16 Diamond League Champion titles and an overall prize money of 1.6 million US dollars.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Für Anlässe der besonderen Art Exklusiv ausgestattete Räumlichkeiten für 12 bis 900 Personen – für Hochzeiten, Bankette, Seminare und andere Anlässe: Wir haben Angebote, die auf Ihre Wünsche zugeschnitten sind. Je nach Jahreszeit, Grösse der Gesellschaft und Art des Anlasses bieten wir Ihnen attraktive Specials. Für Veranstaltungen, die in Erinnerung bleiben. Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Anruf unter Telefon +41 44 456 62 00 Mehr Informationen finden Sie unter www.thedoldergrand.com

The Dolder Grand The City Resort of Zurich since 1899

Tel +41 44 456 60 00 www.thedoldergrand.com

“We are proud that swiss smile has been named ‘Preferred Supplier’ to Swiss Deluxe Hotels. We align with Switzerland’s 41 best 5-star establishments to offer exceptional service and product quality to an exclusive international clientele.” Dr. med. dent. H. Abivardi and Dr. med. dent. G. Abivardi, founders of swiss smile

PREFERRED SUPPLIER

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SWISS DENTAL MEDICINE WITH 5-STAR QUALITY swiss smile and Swiss Deluxe Hotels have much in common: not only has the Swiss centre of excellence for dental medicine been, since 2014, a ‘Preferred Supplier’ of Switzerland’s 41 most prestigious 5-star hotels for its swiss smile cosmetic products, but there are also parallels with their respective clienteles. The latter include innumerable exklusive VIPs. Dres. med. dent. H. and G. Abivardi:

„The patient is always at the heart of our work. He should not even feel like a patient when arriving at swiss smile, but rather like our guest. At the same time he is guaranteed first-class treatment from our team of leading specialists“.

Dres. med. dent. H. and G. Abivardi are the founders of the swiss smile centre of excellence for dental medicine. The innovative swiss smile concept and its extraordinary services combined with excellent qualitywere honoured with national and international awards. Thanks to the founders’ passion for a flawless smile, growing numbers of international clients and a number of Hollywood’s best-known actors and actresses have been turning to swiss smile - and were interested in the swiss smile magazine, as proudly shown on the company’s “wall of fame”! The swiss smile centre of excellence for dental medicine has long attracted international dental experts across a range of specialities. One such appointment is the group’s Medical Director Prof. Dr. med. dent. habil. C. Stappert, MS: an internationally acknowledged expert in the field of periodontology and implantology and current chairman of the IADR’s Prosthodontics Research Group.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

EDITORIAL ADVERTORIAL

YOUR SINGLE SOURCE FOR PROFESSIONAL DENTISTRY Prof. Dr. med. dent. habil. Christian Stappert, MS:

“We are keen to remain at the forefront of professional dentistry. Thanks to the extensive experience of our teams of skilled specialists, we are able to offer our patients complex medical treatments, even in two to three days.”

swiss smile acts as a single source for the complete spectrum of professional dentistry, ranging from dental hygiene, general dental surgery, implantology, orthodontics, Invisalign aligners, aesthetic dentistry, endodontic treatment and oral surgery all the way to complex medical treatments.

SWISS SMILE – YOUR BENEFITS • Highly flexible appointment scheduling, including weekends and evenings. • Excellent availability thanks to centrally located clinics in Switzerland, including Zurich, Bern and St. Moritz – mostly a short walk from your hotel. • Single source for the complete spectrum of professional dentistry.

SEE FOR YOURSELF! swiss smile has been honoured on a number of occasions in Switzerland as well as internationally for its innovative concept and exceptional services, as well as for the excellence of its clinics. Our team of experts and specialists would be glad to provide you with comprehensive advice on the therapeutic options in your particular situation – all of which are at the cutting edge of medical progress. We are located in Zurich and other selected locations around Switzerland.

• The professional specialists speak several languages, including Arabic and Russian.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

VOUCHER FOR GUESTS OF SWISS DELUXE HOTELS Guests of the 41 Swiss Deluxe Hotels benefit from a no-cost, non-binding consultation from swiss smile’s internationally acknowledged specialists – and receive a swiss smile cosmetics product as a personal gift!

Call us for an appointment on +41 44 51 246 65 and mention that you are a hotel guest, or visit our website www.swiss-smile.com.

Ihr Zahnarzt. Unsere Kompetenz. swiss smile setzt sich seit seiner Gründung 2003 für strahlendes und gesundes Lachen ein. An zahlreichen Standorten in der Schweiz bietet swiss smile das komplette Spektrum professioneller Zahnmedizin an. Sowohl national als auch international ist swiss smile für das innovative Konzept, die ausserordentliche Dienstleistung und die hervorragende Qualität mehrmals mit Preisen ausgezeichnet worden.

Since its founding in 2003, swiss smile has devoted itself to radiant, healthy smiles. swiss smile provides the complete range of professional dentistry services via a number of clinics in Switzerland. swiss smile has been honoured with numerous national and international awards for its innovative concept, exceptional service and excellent quality.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

VIP Service

For ultra-discerning requirements Für höchste Ansprüche

Choose a unique and individual way to travel – have a VIP agent accompany you to the aircraft, quickly and comfortably.

Wählen Sie eine einzigartige und individuelle Art zu reisen – Ihr persönlicher VIP Agent begleitet Sie rasch und komfortabel zum Flugzeug.

The support provided by the VIP team is professional, discreet, saves time and is tailored to the guest’s needs.

Die Betreuung durch das VIP Team ist professionell, diskret, zeitsparend und auf die Bedürfnisse des Gastes zugeschnitten.

– Tranquility, comfort and culinary highlights in the exclusive VIP lounge – Luxury limousine transfer service to and from the aircraft – Pick-up service from your hotel, home or office to the airport – Priority at security and passport control

– Entspannung, Komfort und kulinarische Highlights in der exklusiven VIP Lounge – Exklusiver Limousinenservice vom und zum Flugzeug – Limousinentransfer vom Hotel, Haus oder Büro zum Flughafen – Prioritäre Sicherheits- und Passkontrolle

Zurich Airport VIP Service Phone +41 43 816 21 42 vip@zurich-airport.com www.zurich-airport.com/vip

DER LANGE WEG THE COUPLE – ZUR PERFECT PERFEKTION GOLF AND CRANSMONTANA T E X T: Me d a r d 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 : © O m e g a E ur o p e a n M a s t e r 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.

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.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Is golf a national sport? You would probably get little agree-

This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the case in Crans-Montana, where golf has been pla-

ment in response to this question and even some mocking

yed at 1,500 meters above sea level for over 100 years, and

answers. Even though thousands of people are introduced to

where the sport is truly a part of life for the people here. For

the sport with the hard small ball each year, thanks for exam-

decades, golf has practically been a sport in schools and pla-

ple to fantastic public golf initiatives from major distributor

yed by youth, second to skiing. Some even remain faithful to

Migros, in our country the sport still often carries a label of

the sport for their whole lives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as players or often as helpers.

being aloof.

The Omega European Masters thrives in this rich soil. The national sport has become a showcase sport for all of Valais.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Panorama view at hole 8

Barely have the last snowflakes disappeared and the golf course is

with their large families, which is otherwise an exception. “The golf

brought back to life. The facility high above the Rhone Valley has

tournament in Crans and its many merits is a showcase for the whole

been cared for and cherished with a lot of commitment and con-

canton”. After all, Valais tourism primarily sells nature experiences:

siderable resources, so it can keep up with the best courses in the

“Valais – engraved on my heart”, is the claim of the large mountain

world when it is tournament time. Then the tour stays for seven days,

canton, one that it sends out to the world. With the golfing event

and Crans becomes the definitive Mecca of golf in Switzerland – usu-

and nature they have a virtually perfect package that pays into the

ally with beautiful weather, and a golf and Folks Festival with lots of

economy, second only to Zermatt and the Matterhorn. But that is in

white wine and raclette.

a completely different league.

It can also be misty and cold, and the rain can even turn into

Many of the 10,000 plus residents on site and in the surrounding

snowflakes. But the sky usually clears up, suddenly revealing the

area are directly or indirectly connected to the Omega European

majestic Valais mountain chain with its 4,000 meter high peaks in

Masters. The tour retinue of 500 people and especially the additi-

all their glory. The top players who travel in from around the world

onal 50,000 plus audience members must be cared for, fed and

praise the Severiano Ballesteros course, named after the three-time

accommodated. During those two weeks the hotels are basically

Crans champion who died to soon, but they are no less impressed by

all booked. Overall, the direct value creation from the golfing event

the scenery. “The players find it difficult to concentrate on their actual

amounts to six or seven million francs, as estimated by Damian

job with that view”, Valais State Councillor Christoph Darbellay jokes.

Constantin, Director of Valais/Wallis Promotion.

Although it is a bit of an exaggeration with prize money of 2.7 million

The canton supports the event with a significant contribution, since

francs, the Minister of Economic Affairs has a reason to be happy

local value and jobs are created.

about the Crans effect. For instance, many players travel together

Left, Damian Constantin

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Ruf Lanz

Unique suites, excellent service. No wonder some guests just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to leave.

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OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

The third prerequisite for receiving money from the state treasury

personage of Yves Mittaz, CEO of the Omega European Masters.

is definitely satisfied here: creating local, national and international

The 31st tournament of the previous 71 that took place under his

visibility for the canton and the unique nature experiences it offers.

direction happened in 2017.

70 journalists report from Crans. However, television broadcasting is key for media value creation. The tournament is broadcast to

Mittaz and his team, who have a good twelve million francs to work

120 countries by 36 TV stations. about 500 million households are

with, seem to be a kind of gold standard for Valais. "The organisers

reached, of which 250 million alone are in Asia Pacific, Constantin

prove that we know how major events of this kind are organised

emphasizes.

in our region and how to get put on the international map", says Christoph Darbellay with excitement.

The collaboration with the Asian Tour that began back in 2009, which enables 30 Asian top players to play in Valais, has proven

A great beneficiary is naturally also the core of the tournament

to be a stroke of luck. But also the 90 million households that are

and its closest partner, the Crans-sur-Sierre golf club. "In the weeks

reached in the USA are extremely welcome, as well as the 36 million

before and after the Omega European Masters we have green fee

households in Europe of which many are in Great Britain. These are

players from all over the world here", says Club Director Pascal Sch-

all target markets where Valais would like to gain in popularity so it

malen. "Thanks to television, a lot more British people in particular

can be less dependent on the surrounding countries and Switzer-

come to Crans." Schmalen, who is now 30, basically grew up at the

land - markets that have been subject to public pressure over the

course, playing as a professional golfer in the USA for six years after

last few years.

graduating high school and then switching into the event industry. Mittaz brought him back and took him under his wing "until he

"We couldn't afford this kind of promotion on our own", Constantin

could walk alone."

emphasizes. For him, Omega European Masters and quality tourism are an ideal fit: "As in Crans, we want to offer our guests a one-in-

Schmalen learned quickly. With an acquisition programme featu-

a-lifetime kind of experience at other locations in Valais as well."

ring tempting prices, he hopes to add new members to the club

Understandably, he only has one wish for the tournament: "That the

in order to attain a stable, high member count of 1,450. Because a

sponsors remain loyal."

healthy member base also helps the tournament. The collaboration between the Club and Omega European Masters is, not surprisingly,

This is closely linked to the quality of the tournament. However,

"closer than before", Schmalen emphasizes, who represents the first

the people of Valais have been dealt another ace - this time in the

step towards a change of generations in the golf-crazed region.

Yves Mittaz, Tournament Director

Pascal Schmalen, Golf-Club Director

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

Omega European Masters PRESENTATION The Omega European Masters is one of the most prestigious European golf competitions played on the same course for the 71st time in 2017. Located at Crans-Montana in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf-Club is indisputably the most spectacular course on the European Tour schedule.

Alex Noren DEFENDING CHAMPION Alex Noren won for a second time in Crans-Montana in 2016, his first win being in 2009. “It is clearly my favourite tournament. This success comes during a time in the year that I would say I was studious. I trained a lot !”, commented The Swede at the end of his crazy day. He finished tied 6th in 2017.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS

30 Best Asian Players COOPERATION WITH THE ASIAN TOUR Since 2009, the Omega European Masters, has been the first tournament to have been jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the European Tour, giving the 30 best Asian players the opportunity to challenge their European counterparts. In 2014, David Lipsky was the first player from the Asian Tour to win the tournament.

TV 2,631 HOURS OF LIVE BROADCASTING European Tour Productions is a British company which specializes in the production of golf images. In Crans-Montana, TV programme development mobilizes 120 people: cameramen, technical images, sound technicians, 3D effects specialists, and commentators that are ready to step in for the four days of the competition. Everything is done on-site. The result is impressive and can be seen in 120 countries. Images emitted from Crans-Montana reach 497 million homes on all continents. The different programmes together represent 2,631 hours of live broadcasting.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

Her mission

to Kyrgyzstan

Together Dominique Gisin (r.) helps Jamilya Shadykanova and her daughter Nurzat (l.) pick strawberries.

T E X T: M a r ce l H u w y l e r | B I L D E R : R e m o N ä g e li

Swiss Red Cross Ambassador DOMINIQUE GISIN visits the Asian mountain region of Kyrgyzstan. She learns about disaster prevention – and helps with the harvest. The harvest is easier to bring in with three of you! Jamilya

where the SRC provides assistance in the field: She has already

Shadykanova, 50, and her daughter Nurzat, 15, crouch among

been to Bolivia and earthquake-devastated Nepal. And now she is

the strawberry plants in their garden to pick the fruit. Their

in Kyrgyzstan.

guest from Switzerland, Dominique Gisin, is helping them. As they pick the fruit the mother and daughter describe the

The central Asian mountainous region (5 times larger than Switzer-

calamity that occurred here two years ago.

land with a population of 5.7 million) sits between China, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, and was part of the former USSR.

After weeks of rain, the river running alongside the house broke

A mountain rising up over 7,000 metres is still called “Lenin Peak”.

its banks and flooded the surrounding area. Their house and barn were badly damaged, five of the family’s sheep were drowned and

The roads in Kyrgyzstan are wide, extensive, in poor condition and

the produce in the garden was destroyed: “I had wanted to sell the

lead over high mountains. That’s what Dominique Gisin noticed as

strawberries at the market to earn some money”, says Jamilya.

she travelled from the capital Bishkek to the Province of Talas – for six hours, through snowy mountain passes, moon-like landscapes

Dominique Gisin, 32, the 2014 Sochi Olympic downhill skiing

as well as through green mountain valleys, where nomads drive

champion, has been a voluntary ambassador for the Swiss Red

their herds of horses and live in yurts. The SRC is currently imple-

Cross (SRC) since she retired from the sport. She visits countries

menting many disaster prevention projects in the Talas Region.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Rebuilding Flooding also destroyed the Bokoev family’s house. Gisin hugs their baby, little Bilan.

Saddle up The car breaks down so Gisin has to wait. She uses the break to go for a ride.

Kyrgyzstan is constantly hit by earthquakes and, to a great extent,

wounds, heart/lung resuscitation and carrying stretchers. Suddenly

flooding, and this is what happened in the village of Ozgorush where

Gisin is surrounded by the young people – everyone wants a selfie

strawberry “picker” Jamilya lives. She told Gisin what assistance

with the Olympic champion, including three police officers, then three

they are receiving, and how the SRC, the Red Crescent Society of

soldiers and finally even the mayor.

Kyrgyzstan and local authorities have dredged the river next to their house, reinforced the bank and built an overflow channel.

Dominique Gisin from Switzerland spent a whole week visiting SRC

“We feel so much safer now”, says Jamilya.

projects: Rivers are dredged and stabilized, channels, embankments and bridges are built, volunteers are trained for emergencies and in

Bayastanov Satybaldy feels the same way. The 76-year old has ten

first aid. As many as 35,000 people profit from SRC aid. Gisin under-

children, a goatee and wears a traditional Kalpak, the white felt hat,

stands people and their concerns: “Coming from Engelberg, I know

on his head. He shakes Dominique Gisin’s hand for about ten minutes

what the impact of natural disasters can be.” She is also impressed

and emphasizes how lucky he is that the river in his village of Kara-Suu

by the hospitality in Kyrgyzstan – although she isn’t a fan of the

(“Black Water”) no longer has high water or floods his house thanks

fermented horse milk (tastes like liquid bacon).

to the construction work done by the SRC and volunteers from the The road back to the capital again leads through snowy mountain

Kyrgyz Red Crescent.

passes. Then suddenly the car’s engine dies. Help is on its way, but The youth also profit from the SRC. At a school, Gisin watches how

it will take a few hours. And so we wait. There is a yurt close by with

children practise disaster response exercises, including evacuation

horses grazing in front of it. Gisin greets the nomads and praises

training and caring for the injured. There is even a first aid compe-

their beautiful animals. Suddenly a horse is saddled and the guest is

tition on the sports field later. Student emergency teams from vari-

handed the reins. And while the car's engine still is still smoking,

ous villages compete against each other. The events include treating

Dominique Gisin rides out across the expanse of the Kyrgyz steppe.

HOW YOU CAN HELP The SRC works in disaster risk reduction in Kyrgyzstan. Donation account: 30-9700-0 IBAN CH97 0900 0000 3000 9700 0 www.redcross.ch

Finally help has arrived. Red Cross helpers reinforce river banks in the village of Kara-Suu.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

CARPE DIEM BEDS OF SWEDEN – pure lifestyle!

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ADVERTORIAL

The two Swedes founded their dream factory in Lysekil in the

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A MYTH BETWEEN TRADITION AND VISION

T E X T: R i ch a r d H e g g lin | P I CT U R E S : A S Ve rl a g a n d Ve r e in I nt . L AU B E R H O R N R E N N E N

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

It has often been the case that something big starts off small.

blem. Their technique was considered to be outmoded. The rich

When a pair of forward-thinking pioneers at “Hore” organised

British threatened to move to Austria. The ski race was inten-

an international race in the beginning of February 1930, no one

ded to be a demonstration of local achievements.

thought that it would become the most popular sporting event The idea was a winner: The OK boss himself joined the premier

in Switzerland – as well as a worldwide monument.

– and won. Despite an error at the finish line, which cost him 5 “Hore” is what the residents of Wengen call their home moun-

penalty seconds, Ernst Gertsch was the winner of the slalom.

tain, the Lauberhorn. The initiators did have second thoughts

His friend Christian Rubi won the downhill. And what was as-

with regards to material and economic respects during their

tounding: Women were allowed to race too.

project. The Swiss ski instructors suffered from an image pro-

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES 1

1 Racer Ernst Gertsch | 2 Christian Rubi | 3 Ernst Gertsch | 4 from left to right: Ernst Gertsch, his wife Blanda und son Viktor

Näpflin came in behind the Gertsch father and son

pseudonyms like “Lighting” and “Thunder”. Later on, “Lightning” Zeno Colò became a world champion and an Olympic champion.

Even back then, the people of Wengen were distinguished by

The first world cup downhill in ski history in January 1967, was

their clear sense and vision. Their pragmatism with a balanced

fittingly won by superstar Jean-Claude Killy and signified a mile-

combination of tradition and progress remains the organisation

stone.

committee's trademark – with only three presidents in 88 years.

Mattresses instead of safety nets

Ernst Gertsch, born on January 1th , 1900, determined the fate of the race for 40 years, and then handed the sceptre to his son

Three years later, Ernst Gertsch handed the OC presidency over to

Viktor in 1970. In 2014, Urs Näpflin dissolved the Gertsch Dynasty.

his son Viktor, “without warning” as Viktor told us: “I had no idea

He was also a true Wengen citizen who now lives in “Unterland”

what was awaiting me.” Gertsch junior had acquired the required

near Berne where he runs a construction company. Like his pre-

flexibility for the demanding job through his experiences as a pas-

decessor, he also participated in the Lauberhorn Race as a racer,

sionate world traveller, while making his way as a shepherd, bar

however he was eliminated in both his slalom attempts.

keeper and taxi driver. Some evidence of his creativity: Back when there were no nets at the edge of the slopes, he personally col-

In 1930, Ernst Gertsch managed with a budget of 500 Swiss francs,

lected all the mattresses in the hotels to secure the entire run.

which he begged from the tourism office. The unconventional

Unfortunately, the mattresses froze and became hard as stone.

pioneering spirit has been preserved. During the Second World War, “detained” individuals (foreign soldiers and refugees in Swiss

Under Viktor Gertsch, who died in December 2016 after a long hos-

internment camps) received the right to start, and started under

pital stay and was accompanied to his grave by skiing friends from

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES 5

5 organisation committee Lauberhornrennen upper row from left to right: Guido Meyer, Daniel Kaufmann, Andreas Rickenbacher, Markus Lehmann (CEO) bottom row from left to right: Andreas Fuchs, Urs Näpflin, Robert Lehmann, Peter Aeschimann | 6 Beat Zurflüh (left), Urs Näpflin (right), on the race track 7 Viktor Gertsch † | 8 downhill run

near and far, the budget increased fortyfold about 6.5 million Swiss

event. “However, the focus should be on the sport. We are atten-

francs. The revenue from sponsoring, which amounted to 22,500

tively observing which direction the sport of skiing is developing

when he first started, also multiplied by a factor of 100.

towards, what we can adapt and combine with the Lauberhorn's strengths.” All with a sense of sound judgement.

“The budget is currently about 7 million”, the new OC president Urs Näpflin clarifies, who had taken over the office with respectful

Näpflin and his colleagues are against complete commercialisa-

humility: “For me, it is a legacy and a great honour, but also a great

tion. “We rejected the idea of putting up an archway above the

challenge. I value the fact that I do not solely carry this responsi-

Hundschopf”, Näpflin says. “The Lauberhorn has gained value

bility. The OC consists of seven heads, where everyone manages

through the natural character of its key locations. These would be

their own areas, supported by a full-time managing director and

lost. It would be short-sighted – and shooting ourselves in the foot.”

a professional secretariat.” Näpflin is averse to any kind of cult of personality. The Lauberhorn is the star, not its functionaries.

The naturalness of Hundshopf, Brüggli or Hannegg-Schuss should be largely preserved – in the interest of the Lauberhorn and the

Limits of commercialisation

sport of skiing. After all, it is not without reason that the race has huge TV ratings of over 80 % and seven-figure ratings that are even

Näpflin and his colleagues want to continue cultivating the preci-

double as high as the ratings for Roger Federer’s Grand Slam

ous heritage with a smart mix of tradition, innovation and vision.

tennis finals. There is no evidence more impressive than this that

“Tradition is an important part of the event that we must ensure”,

showcases the importance of the Lauberhorn Races.

says Näpflin. The Lauberhorn isn't just a ski race, it is definitely an

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

Steve Podborski

Ken Read

Five young Canadians CRAZY CANUCKS At the end of the 70’s and the start of the 80’s, five young Canadians turned the hierarchy in ski racing upside down with their reckless racing style. And so in 1979, for instance, Ken Read and Steve Podborsky climbed up onto the podium behind the winner Peter Müller (Switzerland) at Lauberhorn. The term “Crazy Canucks” and the “Canadien Corner” slope section were born in this time. That's why the OK invited Canadian ski legends Ken Read, Steve Podborsky, Jim Hunter and Dave Irwin to the Lauberhorn Races in 2017. Dave Murray, the 5th of the Crazy Canucks, died in 1990.

VIP Lounge VIPS AT THE LAUBERHORN RACES There are many opportunities to visit the Lauberhorn Races as a VIP – whether with a Gold Card, in the Swiss Lounge or in the Hospitality-Restaurant Canadian Corner. Thanks to the optimum positioning of the VIP zones and outstanding image broadcasts, you can watch all of the races up close while enjoying the diverse VIP programme.

Lauberhorn Races MODERN TIMEKEEPING There is a team responsible for timekeeping at the International Lauberhorn Races. Every year, about 6 kilometers of power cable is laid for timekeeping purposes and 45 mobile work-site power distributors are installed. The ongoing modernisation of timekeeping proved itself in January 2016, when the slalom race had to be switched from the slalom slope to the final part of the downhill run. Thanks to modern technology – supported by Swatch subsidiary Swiss Timing Ltd and Longines SA – it was possible to provide the necessary connections immediately.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES INTERNATIONAL LAUBERHORN RACES

Secret heros VOLUNTEER HELPERS ARE THE SECRET HEROES OF THE LAUBERHORN RACES About 1,800 volunteers ensured an unforgettable weekend at the Lauberhorn Races in 2017. Many helpers return to Wengen each year to contribute to the success of this traditional event and to enjoy the great atmosphere. All volunteers are rewarded each year with a fantastic staff party, including a ski race!

World Cup racers TRACK TOUR – LAUBERHORN LIVE Beat Feuz, Aksel Lund Svindal, Christof Innerhofer, Marcel Hirscher... names that are on everyone’s lips during the winter season! The original downhill course is open to public a few days after the Lauberhorn Race. Good skiers can find out how it feels to ski the longest and most traditional downhill race track of the FIS Ski World Cup. From the start house follow the tracks of the ski stars, pass the key sections over the “Hundschopf” and under the “Wasserstation”, measure your speed at Hanneggschuss, the fastest part (record 162 h/km) and finally reach the finish in Innerwengen. Then take a deep breath and congratulate yourself. SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

111 YEARS OF WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ T E X T: St e f a n M at hy s | P I CT U R E S : S w i s s-im a g e , A n d y M e t t l e r

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

The international horse races on the frozen lake of St. Moritz

sports to Engadine since the beginning of winter tourism after 1865.

celebrate their 111th anniversary. What started as a major

Curling was played for the first time in Continental Europe in 1880,

pioneering achievement and visionary idea from equine sports

and in 1885 the famous Cresta Run bobsled run was opened. During

enthusiasts now holds a significant spot in the international

this winter sports activity boom and escalating tourism, in 1903 it

racing calendar. White Turf St. Moritz is a sporting event in an

was the Norwegians Thorvald Heyerdahl and Tryge Smith, who told

exceptional class and also a societal highlight in Engadine.

the residents that back in their homeland people were pulled across great distances by reindeer. Although no reindeer were to be found

It all started out with a crazy idea: letting skiers be pulled over the

in Engadine, there were plenty of horses around. The train already

snow by a horse. For once, it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the British who introduced a new

travelled to St. Moritz, however cars were prohibited in the entire

kind of sport in St. Moritz. They had been bringing all kinds of exotic

canton of Grisons until 1925. SkikjĂśring was born.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

Absolutely breath-taking for the spectators: The world exclusive skikjöring races provided the initial spark in 1907 for the first official horse race on the frozen lake St. Moritz.

The excitement surrounding Skikjöring was the basis for holding

A commercial highlight

the first race in 1906, although the thaw in early march that year made a race across the frozen lake impossible. That is why back

Not only is White Turf an equine sport, but for the last 111 years

then, the route went through the streets of St. Moritz to St. Moritz

it has also been a social highlight in St. Moritz. People have been

Bad, through Champfer and back into the centre of the village.

flocking here to experience the spectacle. Even at the first race in

In the following year, on January 27th, 1907, the first official horse

1907, the Rhätische Bahn railway deployed extra trains, just shortly

races of St. Moritz took place on the frozen lake – including a trot-

after the railway opened a station in St. Moritz in 1904. In addition

ting race for the first time in addition to Skikjöring. Flat races, the

to the race track, there is also a small tent city set up with restau-

actual domain of the English thoroughbreds, began in 1911, and

rants, bars, music stages, a kid’s paradise and shops. And when the

jumping races even began in 1922. A world exclusive aspect is that

weather plays along you can imagine yourself in a dream world of

at the Skikjöring event in St. Moritz the horses go to the starting line

snow and ice that has given White Turf its special charm for genera-

without a rider – in other words, the horse is only being guided by

tions. It's hard to put it into words, it simply has to be experienced.

the Skikjöring skier.

The most prize money and lady jockeys

No horse race without bets

Innovation and vision weren't the only attributes of the founding The horse races on the frozen lake of St. Moritz were a world debut

years, they have also been constant escorts of White Turf's develop-

that quickly gained international acclaim. However, the British gu-

ment over the last 111 years. And so, new concepts and ideas kept

ests and the media in particular only really enjoyed the events if bets

emerging throughout all those years to make the event even more

could be placed on the starting horses. Already in the second year

attractive for the athletes as well as the guests and to add varie-

of the horse races in 1908, off-course betting was set up as a simple

ty. The highest endowed race in Switzerland, the Longines Grand

booth on the lake. At the end of the 1990’s, records were set at the

Prix of St. Moritz that boasts CHF 111,111, is worth mentioning here.

betting booths with up to 440,000 CHF during the three racing days.

In 2018, the competition will take place for the 79th time. A special

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

At that time like today: The setting is magnificent and surely explains the unique worldwide appeal.

race during the White Turf racing days is also the H.H. Sheikha

Enhance the value of White Turf as an all-round experience: shows, art, catering and live music bands at the elegant tent city on the frozen lake St. Moritz.

Volunteers and faithful partners

Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies World Championship (IFAHR), a race exclusively reserved for lady jockeys.

Making such a diverse and highly complex event happen requires commitment from countless helpers, volunteers and specialists

The surprising and always crazy ideas from the St. Moritz racing

in all categories. White Turf has always been able to rely on loyal

association are also worth mentioning. In collaboration with artists or

and committed employees who dedicate themselves passionately to

other creative people there has already been a submarine bar on the

working at the event year after year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; either on the lake or beside it.

lake or a restaurant in the belly of a Trojan horse. There are no limits

The organisation committee can also rely on loyal partners and

to the fantasy and creativity, whereby the event organisers stress that

sponsors. White Turf and the three race days in February have

in the future the quality at White Turf will increase. The size of the

been firm pillars in brand positioning for the main sponsors Credit

event has physical limits of course, which is a good thing. Sustainabi-

Suisse, BMW and Longines. Engadine, the frozen lake of St. Moritz

lity and protecting the environment are key aspects for an event that

and White Turf belong together, and have been together for 111

takes place on such an elementary sub-surface â&#x20AC;&#x201C; frozen water.

years with much anticipation for the years to come.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

White Turf

FOUNDING OF THE SKIKJÖRING ASSOCIATION

This can also be combined with the 111th edition (the origin, the idea of Skikjöring): The “Skikjöring Driver's Association” was founded in St. Moritz, an association that give Skikjöring riders a common voice and puts the focus on team spirit. Jakob Broger is the President. Valeria Holinger is on the Board of Directors.

Owner, trainer and rider NATHALIE GONIN A very confident winner with her 11 year old gelding Spike in the trotting race GP Data Quest (1. RS) and BMW Grand Trotting Prize of Pontresina (2. RS) at White Turf 2017. What’s special: she is the owner, trainer and rider as well – and comes from Switzerland. In the overall ranking, the BMW Snow Trotting Challenge 2017 went to Nathalie Gonin with eight points as the owner, as well as the Silver Challenge Driver Cup 2017 as the rider (all trotting races).

Trainer PHILIPP SCHÄRER: The most successful trainer at the Meeting 2017. In the overall ranking, Philipp Schärer, who resides at the Landhof in Elgg, won the Silver Challenge Trainer Trophy as the most successful trainer (trot and gallop) with 47 points. In the GP Longines (1. RS) his trainer horse Soundtrack won: in the sprint race the GP Wrocławski Tor Wyścigów Konnych – Partynice and GP Blasto / Fraumünster Insurance Experts (1. RS) Filou from his stable was the winner. What’s special: three of the horses trained by him from his stable won the first three places at Fegentri – Schlossatelier Group Long Race (2. RS). This has never occurred before at WT. Ridden by Jindrich Fabris, Hello Goodbye sped ahead of Peruvian Angel (Thomas Guineheux) ahead by two and a half lengths. They were followed by Saltas (Eric M. Poretz) who came in third.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

SIDE STORIES WHITE TURF ST. MORITZ

Betting tent BETTING MADE EASY The heated betting tent with at least 20 betting windows offered even more technical comfort in 2017 with simultaneous support from expert advisers. At White Turf, all of the viewers are warmly invited to bet on their personal favourites, simply for the joy of the whole experience: without inhibitions and guaranteed double the fun when they cheer on the race.

Queen of the Engadine VALERIA HOLINGER: The 26-year old from St. Moritz wrote Turf history in 2017. She was the first woman to ever be the overall winner in the Skikjöring tests on her mare Usbekia. She will now be celebrated for a year as the deserving Queen of the Engadine. Skikjöring is still almost exclusively a men’s sport. But that wasn’t always the case. In 1908, women’s Skikjöring was part of the attractions. The women were pulled across the race track in skirts and without helmets. At the age of 18, Valeria Holinger already insisted on being the second woman, after Hedy Danuser, to compete in Skikjöring. Even back then Holinger caused excitement amongst the media. The sport is in her family. Her father Nicolo Holinger had competed in the event exclusive to Engadine and is the President of the Skikjöring Commission. Basically, Usbekia is also part of the family. The mare boards at the stable of trainer Peter Schiergen from Cologne. Holinger lives together with his oldest son in Zurich. Usbekia was discovered a year earlier during a visit to the home stable, but the owner only agreed to a sale at the beginning of February. Subsequently, a joint-ownership of seven-people with the name “Michigan Stable” was established and the horse, fully in training, was purchased.

Entertainment DIVERSE FRINGE PROGRAMME WITH NEW HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY At the start of the race and during the breaks in between, live music, food, art, culture, shopping and shows provide diverse entertainment in the 130,000 m 2 sized tent city on the frozen lake of St. Moritz. Ideal for checking out the beautiful exhibitions of the Engadine Handicrafts Society or enjoying one of the top music bands that provide great sounds at various stages during the White Turf races on Sundays. Paintings from exciting artists can also be discovered as well as the newest clothing and top accessories in the White Turf fan shop. Enjoy culinary treats at the stands of the native hotels, including a drink to go with it – from savoury snacks to elegant gourmet plates and delicious cakes.

Pony rides PONY RIDES FOR KIDS AND THROWING HORSESHOES The Hotellerie Suisse St. Moritz Club also looked forward to making the many children who visit White Turf smile again in 2017. The very popular pony rides for kids were offered in an extended area in 2017 and the horseshoe throwing competition – enjoyed by both young and old – was added as a fun event. There are also special rates, so that families can afford a Sunday excursion to White Turf on St. Moritz lake.

SWISS TOP EVENTS | 2018

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AUTHORS Art Basel: Gigi Kracht Montreux Jazz Festival: Steve Riesen Locarno Festival: Lorenzo Buccella Lucerne Festival: Georg Rudiger Weltklasse Zürich: Roland Hirsbrunner Omega European: Medard Meier Lauberhornrennen: Richard Hegglin White Turf: Stefan Mathys

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