Page 23 - Bordmagazin 2023 ZSG

Zurich traditions in and on the water
The city of Zurich has a close relationship with its lake and rivers. It’s not surprising then that special events take place in and on the water all year round. We’ve brought together some of the most engaging traditions that bring the city’s history to life and provide opportunity for locals and visitors to share memorable moments.
CROSSING LAKE ZURICH (A)
At 1.5 kilometres, the Zurich lake crossing is strictly for well-seasoned swimmers. Participants start at Mythenquai lido and cross the lake diagonally to Tiefen- brunnen lido. It’s an extremely popular event. For safety reasons, participation is limited to 9000 (!) entrants. As a further precaution, all shipping traffic is channelled by the water police and guided past the swimmers. Good to know: The lake crossing is not a competition – speed is irrelevant, it’s all about the enjoy- ment. Anybody wishing to take part should mark 12 JULY 2023 in their calendar. seeueberquerung.ch
HE WHO FALLS FIRST LOSES (B)
It’s a historic tournament with a difference. Water jousting, a kind of citizens’ alternative to the aristocratic mounted jousting, has existed since the late middle B ages. The competition features two jousters, each in a square-ended river boat –
known as a flatboat – passing each other in opposite directions. The aim is to push
the opponent into the water with the lance. It’s not quite as dangerous as it sounds
– the tips of the lances are plate-shaped and bound in leather. The spectacle is
held every three years and is organised by the mariners guild and the Limmat
Club Zurich. The «knights», dressed-up in the guild’s traditional costume, can be admired on 15 JULY 2023. schifferstechen.ch
IT’S NOT JUST SANTAS WHO GET TO SWIM DOWN THE LIMMAT (C) Though usually forbidden, one day a year swimmers can let themselves drift two kilometres down the Limmat, right through Zurich’s historic centre and as far as Oberer Letten lido. The annual Limmat swim is one of the city’s most charming sporting events. Each of the roughly 4500 participants has an inflatable animal
with them. Last year it was «Herbie the penguin». On 19 August 2023 it’s time to take to the water again. Tickets for the 57th Limmat swim go on sale on 16 AUGUST 2023. But be quick, the much-loved event always sells out fast. limmatschwimmen.ch
Listical
A
C
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