24/G2: Die Renn-Maschine

**Film Premiere, Conversation, and Reading from Bernhard Flieher’s New Book *DAS FAHRRAD***

Special guest: Dominik Meierhofer, the ultra-cyclist from Kuchl who placed third in the 2024 Race Across America.

Dominik Meierhofer from Kuchl represents a new generation in the world of ultra-cycling. In June 2024, he took on the Race Across America (RAAM) for the first time, the most famous ultra-cycling race in the world, where Austrians—most notably Christoph Strasser—have consistently led the pack. As a newcomer, Meierhofer also achieved remarkable success. He covered 4,932.6 kilometers from the Pacific to the Atlantic coast, overcoming around 50,000 meters of elevation gain. After nine days, two hours, and 13 minutes, he finished in third place with an outstanding performance. In RAAM circles, Meierhofer is now seen as “the future of the race.”

The rookie was supported by a 13-member team, including many family members, and was also accompanied by German filmmaker Renan Laviano. Laviano’s film will be completed next year, but we’re offering an exclusive 30-minute preview as part of our festival. Meierhofer will be present to discuss the beauty of his adventure, the joy of cycling, and the hardships and challenges of the long journey across North America.

The conversation will be led by SN culture journalist Bernhard Flieher, who will also present his book *DAS FAHRRAD* that evening. The book is a love letter to a machine that enables personal freedom—whether it’s racing across the USA as fast as possible or leisurely riding over the hills of Innviertel.