Matthias Auer holds virtually every record at the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron: overall, Masters, Novice and Mixed. Next Saturday, he will line up for the famous race organised by the Société Nautique de Genève for the twenty-first time – with exactly the same motivation as ever.
Matthias Auer is one of the iconic figures of the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron. He first competed in 2003 and celebrated his twentieth participation last year. A multiple winner of the event, he holds virtually all its records. “I’m only missing the women’s category and the sweep rowing record,” he jokes. “The Tour du Léman is an exceptional event. For me, it really is the highlight of the season.”
What makes this race so special? “There are many reasons,” he explains. “I really appreciate the spirit between the teams and the energy surrounding the event. The Organising Committee, led by Stéphane Trachsler, always makes a huge effort to give us a warm welcome. Above all, I think this is the ultimate event. It is the longest and toughest race I compete in.”
There is just one downside: since last year, competitors have no longer been able to stay in the Cologny civil defence shelter due to a change in regulations. “I really liked that place, close to the club, with a kitchen and always a great atmosphere among all the competitors. I felt at home there.” Matthias and his team now stay in an apartment which, although comfortable, no longer offers the same atmosphere and camaraderie.
To tackle Lake Geneva and its often challenging conditions, Matthias and his teammates have developed a highly effective routine. “You need a good pump and plenty of tape. We pay a lot of attention to preparing our boat because Lake Geneva can be unforgiving,” he explains. “More than anything, I want to complete the full course. When the race has to be shortened because of the weather, it makes me sad. So I really hope that all the competitors come well prepared!”
On the Esplanade des Sports, on the eve of the start, the German champion often notices crews who do not pay enough attention to their preparation. “I see things that I would never do on my own boat. Competitors, especially newcomers, should never hesitate to ask for advice. I’m always happy to answer their questions and help them as much as I can.”
Once the race is under way and the boats gradually spread out with every stroke, Matthias follows one basic principle: stay calm, whatever happens. “We have a route plan with specific objectives. We try to stick to it as closely as possible without worrying about our competitors. Some years, another team has built up a huge lead over us until all we could see was a tiny dot on the horizon. We try to remain calm and maintain our rowing rhythm despite the pressure. And usually, we eventually catch them…”
This year, Matthias will compete alongside two of his most regular teammates, Markus Müller and Stefan Verhoeven, as well as two young rowers from Berlin, Tim Czemper and Paul Seydel. “They represent the future of rowing,” he says. “As for me, I’m starting to get a little old at 55.”
To give this year’s BCGE Tour du Léman an added symbolic touch, Matthias and his teammates have named their crew “Route 66”. “Because when you add up all our individual participations, next week we will reach a combined total of 66 editions!”
Yet another record for this remarkable living legend of the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron.