A new visual era for a historic edition

Did you know that in 1977, Athletissima was held twice? Here’s a surprising story that proves it!

On July 8 of that year, the first meeting (which had not yet been officially named) took place under torrential rain, in conditions worthy of a true downpour. Despite the cloud-filled skies and heavy showers, the athletes – including legends like American Dwight Stones and New Zealander John Walker – braved the elements. The audience, meanwhile, remained stoic, sheltering under a sea of umbrellas.

After this meteorological fiasco, it was Dwight Stones who came up with an idea: he suggested to the event organizers that they give it another go three weeks later. And that’s exactly what happened! On August 3, 1977, the sun finally showed up, and the meeting drew a crowd of 12,000 spectators, marking the beginning of what would become the long and storied ATHLETISSIMA legacy.

Since that memorable day by Lake Leman, the event has never missed a single edition, even during the height of the pandemic. Now celebrating its 50th edition, ATHLETISSIMA continues to shine, proudly carrying on the legacy of its historic beginnings.