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Wednesday, 19. August 2026
Photos of the Canary Islands

Riders hurtle down Icod de los Vinos streets on wooden planks

The Tablas de San Andres take over the town each November, recalling the days when timber was hauled down from the mountains. Wine cellars open the new vintage, with roasted chestnuts and parranda music alongside. Here are the pictures.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Start Foto: Thomas Koch
The steep alley is filling up: in Icod de los Vinos on Tenerife, the first riders are getting ready for the start of the traditional Tablas de San Andrés race.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Aufstieg Foto: Thomas Koch
Before they set off downhill, the brave riders must first carry their wooden boards up the slope - a ritual that is almost as old as the festival itself.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Tuning Foto: Thomas Koch
Final adjustments to the board: Many competitors make last-minute tweaks just before the race to ensure they go extra fast.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Zweisitzer Foto: Thomas Koch
Some dare to give it a go in pairs: with teamwork, courage and a sense of humour, they hurtle down the slope on a single board - not for the faint-hearted.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Kind Foto: Thomas Koch
Even the younger spectators are captivated by the spectacle and are on the edge of their seats as the riders race down the streets.
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Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen handschuh Foto: Thomas Koch
No one sets off without protection: thick gloves are essential, as your hands are used for braking and steering, and often determine whether you fall or stay in control. This makes it clear why gloves are so important.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Blessuren Foto: Thomas Koch
Not everyone makes it down unscathed - grazes are all part of the fun, but are usually taken in good humour.
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Warnschild Foto: Thomas Koch
Between warning signs and...
Icod Teneriffa Tablas Rennen Maronen Foto: Thomas Koch
...At the chestnut stalls, the spirit of the Tablas comes to life: a wild mix of tradition, risk-taking and a warm, festive atmosphere.
Fotos: Eindrücke vom Spartan-Rennen auf Teneriffa Foto: Johannes Bornewasser
Sehen Sie jetzt: Fotos: Eindrücke vom Spartan-Rennen auf Teneriffa
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