What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
What keeps me coming back to the X-Pyr is the purity of the challenge. It’s just you, your wing, your legs, and the mountains. The race strips everything down to decision-making, resilience, and connection with the terrain. Every edition feels different — new weather patterns, new strategic puzzles, new limits to discover within myself. It’s not just a competition; it’s a journey across the Pyrenees that tests who you are when you’re tired, exposed, and far from comfort. That’s addictive in the best possible way.

How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
The X-Pyr feels more raw and strategic than any other Hike & Fly race I’ve done. In many competitions, performance is about speed between turnpoints. In the X-Pyr, it’s about survival, patience, and timing. The scale of the Pyrenees, the Atlantic-to-Mediterranean traverse, and the complexity of the weather systems make every decision critical.

It’s not just a physical race — it’s a chess game in the sky. You constantly balance risk and reward: Do you launch early into unstable air? Do you hike higher for a safer line? Do you glide long and risk landing in a remote valley? The consequences are bigger, the terrain is wilder, and the mental pressure is constant.

That depth — physical, technical, and psychological — is what makes the X-Pyr truly unique.

How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
My previous edition was a deep learning experience. I faced everything the race can throw at you — long hikes under intense heat, complex transition days with tricky weather, and moments where patience was more important than speed.

There were days when everything flowed perfectly: strong climbs, efficient lines, and that magical feeling of moving effortlessly across the mountains. But there were also tough moments — unexpected sink, difficult landings, fatigue building up. That contrast is what defines the race.

More than the ranking, what stayed with me was how much I grew during the event. I improved my decision-making under pressure, learned to manage my energy better, and understood that consistency beats impulsive hero moves. That experience is now a solid foundation for my next edition.

What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
The best thing that happened to me in my last X-Pyr was experiencing a full “flow day” in the mountains. One of those rare days where every decision feels right — launching at the perfect moment, finding strong climbs, choosing the correct lines, and gliding for hours without touching the ground.

It wasn’t just about distance or position in the race. It was about harmony — feeling completely connected to the terrain, the air, and my own instincts. In a race that is often defined by fatigue and uncertainty, that day reminded me why I love hike & fly.

That feeling of freedom, moving efficiently across an entire mountain range under my own power, was the most powerful reward of the race.

What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
The hardest moment was losing time after a wrong weather decision.

I launched with optimism, but conditions didn’t develop as expected. I had to land early and hike longer than planned. It was frustrating — but it taught me patience and better timing.

What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
I learned that patience and consistency matter more than speed.

Managing energy, reading the weather carefully, and making smart decisions day by day is what really counts in the X-Pyr.

If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
I would love to see one more high-alpine turnpoint.

A section that forces athletes to choose between a long technical hike or a bold flying line would add even more strategic depth — while keeping the spirit of the Pyrenees wild and authentic.

What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
I’ve focused on reducing weight without compromising safety.

Lighter hike setup, optimized cockpit, and small efficiency upgrades to save energy over long days. Every gram and every detail matters in a race like this.

Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
My strategy will focus on consistency and energy management.

I’ll prioritize smart decisions, rest when needed, and adapt to weather changes rather than chasing every opportunity. Staying patient and steady wins in the long run.

What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
1. Be patient – don’t rush launches or decisions; timing is everything.
2. Manage your energy – hiking smart and resting when needed beats short bursts.
3. Respect the mountains – weather and terrain are unpredictable; always plan for safety.

What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I train year-round, combining flying, hiking, and physical conditioning.

I fly around 200–250 hours a year, but the focus is on quality: practicing XC lines, take-offs, landings, and long-distance decision-making, not just accumulating hours.

How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
I know my supporter through the hike & fly community — we share experiences, tips, and a passion for the mountains.

Yes, I’ve worked both ways: as an athlete and as a supporter. Understanding both roles helps me communicate better, plan efficiently, and appreciate every part of the race team.

Anything else you like to comment?
To all new and old followers: thank you for the support!

Every like, message, or cheer keeps us going through long days in the mountains. Stay tuned — the X-Pyr is full of surprises, and I can’t wait to share the journey with you.