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Posted by Grant on 12. April 2010 20:07
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What an exhilirating Untamed Switzerland this has been. After 3 years of holding this event, I get a common question from racers: "how can the next edition be as good as this one?" In May of 2009 I asked myself that very question, and Jill and I set to work finding the most spectacular racing terrain that would also balance a number of other key factors:
- Lodging and facilities (our 2010 host would have to offer a variety of hotel/hostel options to fit every budget, we need some meeting space, and we'd like access to internet [for coverage purposes] along with good food)
- Convenience (if it takes 45 minutes to get to the train station, or if it takes a long time to travel to/from each stage, that wouldn't fly for 2010)
- Weather (we wanted to pick an area that would give us the best chance at favorable race conditions, but still offer snow and a true alpine experience)
- Variety (we want to demonstrate different parts of the Alps, showcasing the history and culture of an area along with the mountains and natural beauty)
This year was an undeniable success and, with the cooperation of the famous sunny weather the Engadine is known for, I can declare it the best Untamed Switzerland we've ever operated. Each year attracts a faster, more experienced, and larger field than before and this year was no different. Pontresina was a perfect host town and hub for our activities, and while very little actual time was spent in the town, the lodging options right by the train station really delivered convenience. As for the other factors mentioned above (Weather and Variety), all you have to do is browse the photos from the 2010 race to see how much Switzerland we crammed into these 3 Stages.
There is forested orienteering day, Stage 1, around one of Europe's most famous winter resorts (St. Moritz). Plenty of high alpine fun here too!
Patrick Willcock from the Pilatus Aircraft team "flies" down from the first summit on Stage 1
We have the medieval castle in Scuol and the snowfields high above at Janvrai for Stage 2.
Daniel Geiser from the Pilatus Aircraft team approaches the Scuol-Tarasp castle checkpoint on Stage 2
Stage 3 went from the staggering, snowy, heights of the Bernina Pass all the may down to the mild climate of the Poschiavo Valley on the Swiss/Italian border. Authentic gelato at the finish is hard to beat!
Chris Roberts navigates through the forest and into a clearing high above the Poschiavo Valley
The dust is still settling from the 3 days of racing, and I have lots of work still to do before closing the book on 2010 Untamed Switzerland. Right now, it's nice to just take a breath and reflect on the great bunch of competitors we hosted and enjoy the fresh memories!