Why are hundreds of one-wheeled bicycles circulating in the streets of Grenoble?

Grenoble still and always the capital of cycling. From July 26, the city hosts the World Unicycle Championships. If you still imagine an acrobat in the middle of a circus, think again.

It is now a practice that brings together a large number of sometimes surprising disciplines. We tell you everything about this world event.

A first in France

Every two years, the unicycle world championships are organized in France. Grenoble, the flagship city of cycling (two wheels) in France, is fortunate to be the host city of these world championships which are organized from July 26 to August 7.

Unicon, the name of these world championships, is a convention that was born in 1984. In collaboration with the International Unicycle Federation, this “festival” of cycling wishes to attract as many people as possible and enthusiasts around this discipline which can interrogate.

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The unicycle has not been a simple circus art for decades. Enthusiasts and professional sportsmen have made unicycling a respected sport. To meet the needs of the championship events, the City provides the flat land along the Isère, the descents on the heights of the city, but also all the infrastructures built for the 1968 Olympic Games.

A rich and varied program

During more than 10 days of competition, many athletes will compete to win the title of world champion. From basketball to dance to long jump, athletes use the unicycle in all its forms to win the gold medal.

1,500 participants from 35 different countries will take part in nearly 35 very varied events.

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During the two weeks, entertainment is organized in the championship village. Unicycle initiations are offered.

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Éric Piolle proud to host the championships

The mayor of Grenoble, Éric Piolle is full of praise when it comes to talking about Unicon: “you are helping to take a playful, joyful and positive look at low-impact and active travel”.

With 600 members, the practice is spreading in France. The opportunity to conquer new enthusiasts during these 10 days.

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