Matthias Feldmann – an indispensable part of the National Park Bike Marathon
His career began in the heart of the Engadin, more precisely at the famous ski marathon. As a native, he has a deep connection with the region and a passion for technical innovation, particularly in the field of wireless networks.
Passion for sport, technology and nature in the Engadin
His journey with wireless networks began as a freelancer for the company Riedel (formerly Telekomm- und Sportservice) over three decades ago at the ski marathon, where he first experienced the challenges and importance of a reliable communications infrastructure. In addition to his professional responsibilities at Swisscom, Matthias is a nature lover: he enjoys exploring the area on an e-bike, skiing downhill and cross-country skiing through the snow-covered landscapes of the Engadine. His love of aviation is reflected in his penchant for gliding, which allows him to fully appreciate the unique beauty of the region.
Communication security guaranteed even in extreme situations
His connection to the Engadin Ski Marathon and later the Bike Marathon goes beyond his technical expertise. Matthias witnessed the development and digitalisation of the radio networks that are essential for the events. In the past, when he laid the lines between Maloja and S-chanf as part of the radio team, the challenges were many and the technology less advanced. Today, with digital radios and centrally controlled networks, safety and efficiency have improved, while the technical possibilities are constantly expanding.
One unforgettable experience in his career was in 2011, when extreme cold put drivers and helpers to the test. Matthias played a key role in ensuring communication and coordination, both on site and from the head office in Scuol. These events not only shaped his work, but also his understanding of the importance of a robust infrastructure at such events.
Technical masterpiece for the National Park Bike Marathon
The radio networks that Matthias and his team set up are technical masterpieces for anyone hearing them for the first time. From the control centre in Scuol in the Chasa Nova, they coordinate the signals to several key locations such as Motta Naluns, Lü and Susch, where private internet connections are used for the link to get the necessary relay stations up and running. Each location requires careful planning and coordination, especially in remote areas such as the Chaschauna Pass or Alpisella, which have to be set up without existing infrastructure.
The bike marathon is very varied for me. You meet all sorts of different people, whether it's the people responsible for the radio equipment, long-standing volunteers or the organising team. The technical challenges, especially laying the cables, make the work exciting. But what I like most is the landscape - from the vastness of the Lower Engadine to the picturesque valleys in Val Müstair. I'm particularly fond of the Val Mora.
Matthias Feldmann
A job that connects people and places.
Working on the bike marathon is more than just a job for Matthias. It is an opportunity to experience the diversity of the Engadin and to work with a community. After the race, he is often still working for hours until the last participant has reached the finish line and the equipment can be dismantled. These hours spent together, whether working with the paramedics in Val Müstair or at the final barbecue after the work is done, are just as important to him as the technical challenge.
As part of a team that comes together every year to support the bike marathon, Matthias Feldmann has developed a deep connection to the people and places of Val Müstairs. He has been based in Döss Radond for years.
Matthias admits that he has never ridden the National Park Bike Marathon. ‘I could do it from Livigno, but the more demanding stages with the climbs at Döss Radond or Costainas are too challenging for me. I'm more of a pleasure e-bike rider,’ he explains with a wink
Undiscovered treasures along the bike marathon route
Although Matthias lives in the Upper Engadine, there are still undiscovered treasures for Matthias in the National Park Bike Marathon area.
I've never explored Val S-charl by bike before, but I'm very excited about it. Many years ago, I went on a ski tour to Piz Sesvenna and spent the night in the Restaurant Mayor - that was a special experience. The scenery in Val S-charl and Val Mora is simply fantastic.
He also really liked Guarda, with its picturesque and historic buildings. He enjoys experiencing the landscape and prefers to ride at a leisurely pace to avoid accidents.
His commitment and expertise help to ensure that the National Park Bike Marathon runs smoothly every year and that the safety of the participants is guaranteed. Thanks to his experience, his passion for the Engadin and modern technology, Matthias is an indispensable part of the team that makes the bike marathon a success.
