Dolomitenmann

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Paragliding pictogram

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Canoeing (slalom) pictogram

Dolomitenmann is one of the world's toughest team relay races, taking place annually in Lienz, Austria. It combines four extreme sports disciplines: mountain running, paragliding, whitewater kayaking, and mountain biking. Each team consists of four members, with each athlete competing in one of the disciplines. The event, first held in 1988, has grown in popularity and prestige, attracting athletes and teams from around the globe.

Overview

The Dolomitenmann competition is often referred to as the "World's Toughest Team Relay Race" due to its challenging courses and the physical demands placed on the athletes. The race is held in the picturesque but rugged terrain of the Dolomites in East Tyrol, which provides a stunning backdrop for the event.

Disciplines

• Mountain Running: The race kicks off with a grueling mountain run, where athletes face steep ascents and descents on rough trails.
• Paragliding: The second leg involves paragliding from the mountain peaks, requiring skillful navigation through the air to reach the designated landing zones.
• Whitewater Kayaking: Athletes then take to the rivers in kayaks, navigating through turbulent whitewater sections.
• Mountain Biking: The final leg of the race is a challenging mountain bike ride, with steep climbs and technical descents.

History

The Dolomitenmann was conceived by Werner Grissmann, an Austrian ski racer, as a way to combine various extreme sports into one event. The inaugural race took place in 1988 and has been held annually ever since. Over the years, the event has seen various course changes and improvements, making it even more challenging and exciting for participants and spectators alike.

Participation

Teams from all over the world compete in the Dolomitenmann, including professional athletes and amateur enthusiasts. The event has categories for men's, women's, and mixed teams. Due to its extreme nature, participants are required to have a high level of physical fitness and specific skills in their respective disciplines.

Impact and Legacy

The Dolomitenmann has had a significant impact on the town of Lienz and the surrounding region, boosting tourism and local economy. It has also inspired similar events worldwide, though it remains unparalleled in terms of difficulty and prestige. The race has fostered a sense of community among extreme sports enthusiasts and has contributed to the development of new technologies and techniques in the disciplines involved.

See Also

• Adventure racing
• Multisport race
• Xterra Triathlon