TEAMS
Antonio Ramos
PILOT
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Spain
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41
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National Police Officer
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Huesca (Spain)
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1 X-Pyr
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GIN Gliders Puma 2
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GIN Yeti Race M
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GIN Gliders M
Jorge Burguete
ASSISTANT
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Spain
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Zaragoza (Spain)
Team details
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What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
I never get tired of flying in the Pyrenees, besides, I think I’m a masochist.
How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
The route is much longer and the level of the pilots is very high.
How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
I finished 17th overall and I was very happy, I gave it my all, but we’ll do better this year.
What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
The last two days of the race were a constant struggle to overtake a friend in qualifying; it was like a motorcycle race with various overtakes. I’ll never forget it.
What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Flying in very harsh weather conditions with storms.
What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
It’s a long race, you have to pace yourself and above all, fly a lot! And take off again as many times as you can.
If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
The organisers and sponsors of this race have a mischievous and perverse mind; I think they have plenty of ideas.
What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
I’ve completely changed the equipment; now it’s much lighter.
Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
We have to be realistic and accept that the best pilots in the world are competing in this race. I assume it’s very difficult to keep up with them, so the strategy is simple: drop back from them as late as possible and never give up.
What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
Be careful in the heat; always carry extra water. Be mindful of the signal strength; there are some dark and unreliable areas. Above all, enjoy the mountains because they are beautiful.
What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I’ve been flying for about 14 years, and I worked as a tandem pilot for a few years. Unfortunately, I can’t fly as much as I’d like (I’m a family man). I fly about 120 hours a year; it’s not a lot, but I try to make sure they’re quality flights.
How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
He’s a great guy, I wouldn’t trade him for anything; he knows how to lift your spirits when you’re feeling down.
Anything else you like to comment?
I want to tell my wife that I love her very much and thank her for bearing the weight of the training, the race, the injuries, the sacrifices…
