The invisible stage of the Swiss Epic

When the starting gun fires for the fourth stage in the Kurpark on August 22nd, everything seems perfectly natural to the spectators. The course is marked, the Race Village is ready, and the timing system is set up. What hardly anyone sees in this special moment is that months of intensive work lie behind this smooth operation.

Even before this year's Swiss Epic begins, preparations for the next edition are already underway. Permits are obtained, routes are planned, partners are coordinated, and countless details are finalized. The closer the event gets, the more intense the work becomes. "For the last four to six weeks, it's practically all about grind and nonstop work for us," says Race Director Corina Feuerstein.

An event in constant motion
What makes the Swiss Epic special is that the race doesn't stay in one place. For five days, the entire event moves from stage location to stage location. The Race Village, finish arch, timing system, bike wash, tech zone, catering, and power and water lines must all be ready at each stage location in good time.

However, the organizational effort extends far beyond the actual race itself. The complete package also includes accommodations, hotel shuttles, breakfast and dinner, massages, and a laundry service. The setup team is on-site for a total of 13 days to prepare the various stage locations.

Nothing is left to chance on the course itself. An eight-person team marks each stage the day before. On race morning, a two-person team on motorbikes checks the entire route. Shortly before the leading professional teams, another two-person team conducts a final check: Are there any new obstacles blocking the way? Have any markings been removed? Only then can the stage be opened.

Despite the detailed planning, the organizing team must remain flexible at all times. Thunderstorms or heavy rain can lead to postponed starts and shortened, modified, or even completely rerouted courses at short notice. In such moments, quick decisions, experience, and well-established procedures are essential.

Around 250 people for a common goal
To ensure everything runs smoothly, almost 200 crew members and around 50 volunteers work hand in hand every day. Local partners such as mountain railways, utility companies, authorities, and landowners also play a crucial role. Together, they ensure that the athletes can fully concentrate on the race and their personal adventure. "Without volunteers, an event like the Swiss Epic wouldn't be possible. They are the heart of it. The same goes for the local partners who contribute their expertise and actively support us," says Corina Feuerstein.

More than just a mountain bike race
From August 19 to 23, 550 athletes from 38 nations will complete a total of 338 kilometers and 10,900 meters of elevation gain. The starting field ranges from top international riders to ambitious amateur cyclists. This year's starting list also includes the oldest participant ever registered: he is 81 years old.

"The Swiss Epic is much more than a race. It's an adventure that participants will remember forever," says Corina Feuerstein.

The final two stages on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23, lead through Davos. The start and finish lines are located in the spa park. Anyone passing by will experience the full spectrum of the Swiss Epic: first, the fastest professional teams battling for seconds, followed by the amateur teams who, after five intense days of racing, cross the finish line together and are greeted with applause from the crowd. This contrast is precisely what makes the event exciting, even for those who don't ride mountain bikes themselves. On Sunday, the youngest bike fans can also get a taste of racing at the Epic Kids event.