Meet the Man Behind Zurich’s Seeüberquerung – Dorian Eichholzer
If you’ve ever taken part in Zurich’s much-loved annual Seeüberquerung, you’ve probably seen thousands of swimmers in bright yellow caps making their way across Lake Zurich. But behind the scenes, an enormous team works for months to make the event happen safely – and one of them is Dorian Eichholzer.
Now in his third year with the organising team, Dorian is responsible for media relations and communications for the Zurich Seeüberquerung. Working for the City of Zurich’s sports department, he ensures participants, sponsors and the media stay informed before and during the event.
Although he has never actually swum across the lake himself, Dorian says there is one moment every year that never gets old.
“Watching the first 1,000 swimmers run into the lake together is always my favourite moment. Seeing everyone in their yellow swim caps reminds you that sport is for everyone. You don’t have to be an athlete—you can simply take part for the fun of it.”
That sense of community is what makes the Seeüberquerung so special. As long as participants can swim, everyone is welcome, regardless of age or ability.
Ironically, Dorian has never had the chance to experience the swim himself.
“I’ve always been on the organising side! But one day, when I’m no longer working on the event, I’d definitely like to take part.”
While thousands of people only see the event itself, planning begins long before swimmers enter the water.
One of the biggest challenges is that the final decision to go ahead depends on the weather. Every year, organisers keep three possible dates available and, on the Monday beforehand, assess the forecast before confirming whether the swim can take place.
With up to 9,000 participants eager to secure their place online, communication becomes critical.
“We need to make sure everyone receives clear information at exactly the right time,” explains Dorian. “Social media has become one of our most important communication tools because it’s such an effective way of reaching people quickly.”
The weeks leading up to the event are also a race against time. Sponsors need coordinating, newsletters must be scheduled, social media posts prepared and every last detail checked – while hoping the weather cooperates.
Fortunately, the event benefits from long-standing support from sponsors including Migros and Zürcher Kantonalbank, who have backed the Seeüberquerung for many years.
Despite the pressure, Dorian wouldn’t have it any other way.
Asked to describe the event in just three words, his answer was immediate:
“Fun. Spontaneous. Risotto.”
The final answer raises a smile – but anyone who has completed the swim knows exactly what he means. Every participant receives a generous helping of risotto at the finish line, creating the perfect opportunity to relax, celebrate and share the experience with thousands of fellow swimmers.
It’s a fitting end to one of Zurich’s most popular summer traditions – and one that perfectly captures what the Seeüberquerung is all about: community, fun and bringing people together through sport.
Have you ever taken part in the Seeüberquerung? Find out all about this annual Zurich summer event here.
Article written by Nina Briefel
*** Articles You May Like ***
The Free Rundfunk.fm Summer Festival at the Landesmuseum Zurich
****************************
