Following a breathtaking TORTOUR 500, we caught up with cyclists Gian Friesecke and Felix Anderegg (Partner Manager at edi) to discuss their experiences and impressions of this epic race. Find out in this interview how they fared and which moments left the greatest impression on them.

Hello Gian and Felix, congratulations on your impressive performance at the TORTOUR 500. How does it feel to have successfully completed this legendary race?

Gian: Relieved, happy, and tired.

Felix: It’s always a special feeling when an event you’ve spent a long time preparing for intensely is over. Since we achieved a very positive result, I am, of course, very happy.

That sounds like a very emotional experience. How did you decide to take on the challenge of the TORTOUR 500 as Team edi?

Gian: I don’t exactly remember how the idea came about. It might have something to do with the fact that it originated at the HR Campus Christmas dinner. What I do remember is that Felix was immediately enthusiastic, and that enthusiasm rubbed off on me right away.

Felix: If I recall correctly, it was a classic "beer idea" at one of our legendary HR Campus Christmas dinners. At the time, I didn’t even own a bicycle. I’d say it was a case of youthful recklessness.

What specific challenges did you overcome during the race?

Gian: Right at the starting gun, the mild summer weather turned into an intense summer thunderstorm with everything that goes with it. So, right from the start, we faced extremely tough conditions for a bike race. Additionally, it got dark by the second stage, and I caught a minor stomach bug. Despite that, neither of us let it ruin our good mood.

Felix: An unusual amount of rain, hail, and wind. And then, of course, the normal struggle against yourself that you face in such a long race.

You delivered an impressive performance and even won in your category—congratulations! How did you specifically prepare for the TORTOUR 500 to meet these challenges?

Gian: Felix took excellent care of the entire organization. I had the privilege of focusing only on the physical part. To do this, I completed several long training sessions. Also, whenever possible, I bike to work and back every day. This is not only a great balance to work but also top-notch preparation for the Tortour.

Felix: In my case, I first had to buy a bike. That was followed by 14,500 km of training, including a minor accident with a car that delayed the project by a year—and then it was already time for the start of the Tortour.

That sounds like thorough preparation. Are there specific moments or stages during the TORTOUR 500 that particularly stand out in your memory?

Gian: There are many moments worth mentioning. We were on the road for quite a while. For example, there was this one Spaniard who took on the 500 kilometers alone. For a long time, we were traveling at a similar speed before we managed to distance ourselves from him in the final stages. While we were feeling increasingly tired, he was always totally hyper and nervous at the timing stations. It was also great to be cheered on by HR Campus & edi fans along the roadside. But what I will remember most is crossing the finish line.

Felix: For me, each of these five stages somehow wrote its own story. If I had to highlight one, it would definitely be the last stage we completed together. Especially the moment just before the finish when Gian reached out his hand for a high-five and I realized that we had made it.

Those sound like moving moments. Finally, what does it mean to you to participate in the TORTOUR 500, and what message would you like to give to other cyclists?

Gian: The Tortour is a well-known name to many people. Being part of this race and then also setting a good time naturally fills me with pride. But more importantly, we had a great time on the bike together. If I can give anyone a tip, it’s that it’s always worth taking a risk or facing a challenge.

Felix: For me, it was a very cool project and a journey on which I learned and experienced a lot. When it all began, I was quite active in various sports but definitely not yet a cyclist. Now, perhaps a little. A message? That’s difficult... But I think if you don’t overthink it, just do it, and make sure you don’t lose the fun in the process, then you’re certainly on the right track. And what’s always important on a journey: good companions!

Thank you very much, Gian and Felix, for this inspiring conversation. We wish you both continued success and joy in cycling!

Gian and Felix: Thank you very much! It was a pleasure to be here. We look forward to the coming sporting challenges and the next adventure!

Impressions of the TORTOUR 500

Interesting Facts about the TORTOUR 500

The TORTOUR 500 is a challenging ultracycling race in Switzerland spanning over 500 kilometers. It attracts cyclists from all over the world and demands endurance, mental strength, and strategic tactics. The non-stop race leads through breathtaking landscapes and over famous Alpine passes. Participants must pace themselves and face changing conditions to reach the finish line. The TORTOUR 500 offers a unique experience for passionate cyclists who want to test their limits and feel the thrill of triumph.

Subscribe to the Edi Newsletter in German

The German Newsletter keeps you up to date about Edi: simply register using your e-mail address and never miss an article. Of course, you can unsubscribe at any time.