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History

The Diavolezza downhill race was held a total of 34 times on the Diavolezza glacier run (Romansh for “she-devil”). The first race in 1930 attracted 300 participants who made the ten-kilometre descent with an altitude difference of 1,000 metres – at a time when there were still no cable cars. Racers had to climb 885 metres up to the start on fur-lined skis. After 23 editions, the Bernina Diavolezza cable car came into operation for the first time on 22 December 1956, making it easier to reach the start. The race became extremely famous, with the gold, silver and bronze devil’s face badges awarded gaining status as coveted prizes. Winners included well-known ski stars such as Rudolf Rominger, Dumeng Giovanoli and Heinz von Allmen. The race stopped being held after 1980 for unknown reasons.

Want to know more?

Browse through old start lists and programmes. The material has been kindly provided by Museum Alpin, Pontresina.

1934 programme

Race pictures: Photograph: Museum Alpin

Race pictures: Photograph: Museum Alpin

Winners’ badges.

The challenge cup showing all winners from 1930 to 1980.

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