Completely normal in Grindelwald
Don’t miss out on a ride on a Velogemel – this single-track, steerable sports sledge has been used by the people of Grindelwald as a means of transport in winter since 1911. The Velogemel World Championships are held in Grindelwald every February – anyone who wants to can take part.
- Grindelwald railway station
- Kaufmann Sport
- Egger Ski Service, Grindelwald Grund
Between 1910 and 1911, Christian Bühlmann invented the bicycle sledge. He used ash wood for the frame, whilst maple was suitable for the runners, handlebars and saddle. Two blacksmiths from Grindelwald manufactured the runners.
On 1 April 1911, Christian Bühlmann, a resident of Grindelwald, visited the Swiss Federal Office for Intellectual Property in Bern to apply for a patent for his ‘bicycle-like wooden sledge’. He presented the officials with the detailed plans for his ‘single-track steerable sports sledge’.
In the past, the Velogemel served the postman well on his rounds; the doctor used it for house calls; the farmer did his shopping with the Velogemel; and the children rode it to school. Nowadays, the Velogemel is mainly used as a sports and leisure device; some locals still ride it into the village for their shopping, and children use it for their journey to school.
Nowhere else in Switzerland are Velogemels used. However, as a unique item, they are sold all over the world. Buyers include Australians, Japanese, Americans, New Zealanders and simply enthusiasts of the Velogemel.
From time to time, Velogemel races have also taken place – and they are enjoying increasing popularity again these days.
The route selection includes not only downhill roads but also flat sections. It is precisely on these that the Velogemel proves to be a practical and energy-saving means of transport, provided the appropriate ‘scooter technique’ is mastered.
To mark the ‘850 Years of Grindelwald’ anniversary, a ‘World Championship’ was even held for the first time in January 1996.
After all, this race through the village streets – organised with a touch of humour – became truly international thanks to German, Dutch, French and Japanese participants, yet the title of world champion was confidently – and not unexpectedly – claimed by a local, Hänsel Brunner.
This ‘World Championship’ has already become a fixture in the winter programme.
Incidentally, Velogemel riders have the opportunity to compete in all the toboggan races held in the valley, as there is always a separate category reserved for these vehicles. Experience has shown that, with the right riding skills, it is certainly possible to keep up with the pace using the local toboggans, though not when compared to today’s sports toboggans, the mass-produced competition equipment.
Would you like to buy a Velogemel? You can find all the information here.
