"The idea for the Granfondo came up a few years ago in a conversation with an equally cycling-enthusiastic colleague from a group  project. The launch of our unified brand - now we're all just 'Baloise' - offered the perfect momentum to put the Granfondo into practice. For me, the event is a great example of how self-organised communities can achieve great things when they have the same goal in mind - even when working across national borders, departments and hierarchical levels."

Geert de Ceuster, Grandfondo initiator, OC member and rider and project leader from Belgium

"Of all the participants, I was probably the only one who didn't know any of the other riders before the event. But this was no problem, because we 'riders' grew together very quickly - the shared Baloise spirit and the common passion for cycling offered many links. What makes the Granfondo so special for me is that employees from the base had the idea for it and now something so big has come out of it." 

Thilo Hahn, Granfondo driver and head of private client business non-life from Germany

"I've never worked in a team that built up such a high level of trust so quickly as the Granfondo support team. We had to find solutions for many challenges within a short period of time - and this in a group of previously unfamiliar people and with little sleep. That was tough, but also a lot of fun! I also made a lot of contacts that will help me in my day-to-day job in project management."

Mieke Creve, Grandfondo helper and Track Lead Decommissioning from Belgium

"I was the oldest participant and a bit nervous because although I cycle a lot, I’m not used at all  to cycle in groups. But thanks to the mutual support among us riders, I gained  courage and self-confidence.  It was also heartwarming that we were assisted by some colleagues throughout the trip. I am very grateful that this great experience was made possible for us employees. For me, this commitment to such an event shows that Baloise cares about the well-being and solidarity between its employees - which was underlined not least by the fact that our CEO Gert welcomed us personally at the headquarters in Basel."

Christine D'Haene, Grandfondo driver and Claims Adjuster Marine & Transport from Belgium

"The Granfondo was a great opportunity to share my passion for cycling with my colleagues. The focus was on togetherness: we motivated each other and quickly grew together as a unit. For me as a customer advisor, the exchange with people from different functions and countries was very exciting: Normally, I look outwards, towards the customers. Here I gained an insight into the inside of Baloise. An exciting change of perspective for more mutual understanding! Sweating together just bonds you together."

Dejan Savic, Grandfondo driver and customer advisor from Switzerland
 

"I simply love cycling! That's why it was immediately clear to me that I wanted to participate in the Granfondo. It was very enriching to be able to talk to colleagues from different countries about their perspectives on Baloise - and also to be able to celebrate my birthday with them. A very special party! I made a lot of great acquaintances with whom I will stay in touch - both professionally and to organise further trips together."

Joao Cruz, Granfondo driver and Client Relationship Manager from Luxembourg