Mountain King.
Intro
Why an extreme sportman keeps fit in the city of Geneva. When Dawa Sherpa runs in the mountains, he could be flying. Where many reach their limits, the 48-year-old is at ease.
Geneva.
Embedded between nearby Alpine peaks and the hilly terrain of the Jura, the French-speaking city of Geneva lies in the bay where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the «capital of peace».
Hint
He moves with unshakeable self-assurance on narrow paths outdoors. His sport is trail running. Its extreme form is ultra trail. Dawa Sherpa is a star among mountain runners. He has won almost every race out there.
His house in the Geneva region is full of cups and medals, including the Olympic flame. Geneva is the perfect place for getting fit to conquer such extreme challenges, be it on Geneva's very own moutain Salève, on steps in the old town or around the lake, where Dawa Sherpa trains with a constant view of the jet d'eau.
Water, city, mountains.
La Jonction.
His favourite place, however, is La Jonction. It is one of the few places where two rivers meet and flow along together for a short distance. The milky Arve meets the Caribbean blue Rhône here. The best view of the natural phenomenon is from above, from the viaduct. Dawa Sherpa enjoys taking a moment's pause here after runs in the city.
There's something meditative, spiritual about La Jonction.
“During that time I learned things that still help me every day today.”
Dawa Sherpa grew up in a Nepalese mountain village and lived in a Buddhist monastery as a child. Today he works for the construction company Induni, which gives him a lot of freedom. He is grateful for that.
He's loved sharing ever since. He does this with his own humanitarian organisation. It helps earthquake victims in Nepal.
Breathe.
Geneva, the city of peace and the hub for humanitarian aid, is therefore the logical adopted hometown for Dawa Sherpa in two ways.
A city where nature is so close and humanity is lived out on every corner – you'll probably only find that in Geneva.
Geneva is a city of contrasts that unites people.
In Geneva, the man from the mountains of Nepal has matured into the king of the mountain runners and a lifesaver for those who need it most.
Cultural meeting point Bains des Pâquis. Located right on the lake, the Bains des Pâquis are a draw for local sun-worshippers in summer and winter alike.
Bains des Pâquis.
Right in the city centre and yet an oasis of peace: In the summer, the Genevese come here to swim, sunbathe or enjoy a meal in the restaurant with Mediterranean flair. This place is also popular with fondue fans – all year round. The hammam and Turkish bath are real insider tips in the winter. And, of course, many come to the Bain des Pâquis just because of the view. The combination of lake, city and mountains is impressive.