What will the world look like in the year 3000? This was the question that drove the organizers of the Swatch Rocket Air - so much so that they decided to move the 9th edition of Switzerland's biggest freestyle bike event 982 years into the future. Since last week, around 30 helpers have been rebuilding landings from 3000 pallets, pouring tens of cubic meters of humus and balancing on dizzying scaffolding to build eight-metre-high drops on rocket launch pads.

With Nicholi Rogatkin and Thomas Genon, the winners of the last 4 years are at the start. After Thomas Genon had won the Swatch Rocket Air in 2014 and 2015 with technical excellence, Nicholi Rogatkin was able to strike in the last two years with triple spins. "The spectators pushed me to my best performances", said Rogatkin after his victory in 2017 "What we are experiencing here in the Thun ice rink is unique on the tour", the cash roll virtuoso continued. In addition to the two top favorites, another two-time winner is also in the mix; Brit Sam Pilgrim. Before the showdown between the protagonists to see if anyone can pull off a triple victory, the big team battle will take place on Friday. Experience has shown that the 45 or so riders, divided into 6 teams, bring the ice rink to the boil.

In addition to the slopestyle leap forward some 982 years, there will also be a veritable fireworks display in the supporting program in Thun: art bike and BMX flatland artists will battle it out and the bike art of yesterday will meet the style of tomorrow. There will also be a spectacular trials show. The pump track race will undoubtedly also be a hot attraction, where everyone can dare to ride the wild waves. The side events are rounded off by numerous family activities - including the popular Like-a-Bike Race - as well as musical highlights. And of course, the legendary Big Baang Party will also be celebrated on Saturday at Club The Legacy this year - true to the motto: "Party with the riders!"

The Swatch Rocket Air will be broadcast live on Saturday, April 28 at 19:00 on rocketair.ch and on teleclub. Tickets are available online at www.rocketair.ch/tickets