When and why did you start paragliding?
I started because I was inspired by reading a book about a hang glider pilot who crossed the Alps by combining hiking with flying. In addition, I had a colleague who was already flying, and he convinced me to give it a go.

Why have you applied to participate in the X-Pyr?
I have been practising Hike & Fly for many years and have crossed the Pyrenees in stages with friends on several occasions. After seeing how my teammates from the Catalan H&F Team have participated in the last six editions, I felt that this was my moment. My knowledge of the terrain and my passion for this sport have prompted me to stop waiting and finally accept the challenge.

Why are you attracted to hike & fly?
Since I was 14, my passion has been adventure in nature. I spent a lot of time climbing, but I felt that my mountain experience was missing a dimension. When I discovered Hike & Fly, I was able to integrate that aerial aspect that I had not yet explored, thus completing my connection with the natural environment.

What is your greatest sporting success (flying or not flying)?
My greatest sporting achievement has been coming third in the Spanish Hike & Fly Championship. This achievement, combined with my years of experience as a climber and my expeditions in the Pyrenees, demonstrates my ability to compete at the highest level. Being part of the Catalan team and having reached the national podium reflects my commitment, my fitness and my technical ability in this discipline.

What excites you most about participating in the X-Pyr?
What motivates me most is facing a challenge that I consider to be extremely demanding, both personally and technically. What’s more, this edition is very special for me because I will be able to share the experience with three teammates from the Catalan national team who are great friends. Taking on a challenge of this magnitude surrounded by people I trust so much makes it even more exciting.

What is your best result in a H&F competition so far?
I have a solid track record in competition: I have been Catalonia Speed Champion and have won the Catalan H&F League twice. I also came third in the Spanish Championship. At regional level, I have won several times in “Els Encordats” and have international experience, notably coming ninth in a round of the Swiss League in Lenk.

Have you flown in the Pyrenees before? Do you have a favourite area?
As a resident of the Pyrenees, I am fortunate enough to fly there every day. I feel a special connection with Castejón de Sos, a place I have visited every summer for years. This continuity has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the aerology of the area, which is essential for a race of this nature.

What does your typical training week consist of?
My physical training ranges from 8 to 14 hours per week, following a plan designed by my trainer. My routine includes one or two days of strength training, interval training sessions to improve cardiovascular capacity, and endurance cycling. I devote my weekends entirely to specific Hike & Fly training, combining steep climbs on foot with my equipment on my back and decision-making in flight under fatigue.

What worries you the most about the event?
My biggest concern is suffering an injury or physical discomfort that prevents me from performing at my best. I have trained very hard to get in shape, and I would be very disappointed if I had to abandon a race of this calibre due to an unforeseen physical factor. I am very excited and eager to tackle everything else (weather, strategy, logistics).

Personally, how do you feel differently when you participate in H & F races in comparison to XC competitions?
For me, H&F is the natural evolution of my passion for the mountains. Unlike conventional XC, H&F allows me to interact with the environment in a holistic way: climbing, walking and flying. The feeling of freedom is much greater, as the activity does not end when you land; being able to walk to find a new take-off point turns the day into a complete and much more satisfying adventure.

How do you know your supporter? And have your worked as athlete/supporter before?
My assistant is a teammate on the Catalan H&F team. He is an exceptional athlete, in excellent physical condition and with extensive technical knowledge. We have complete trust in each other; in fact, his support and motivation were key factors in my decision to finally take the plunge and enter the X-Pyr. We make a very close-knit team.

What advice would you ask of the race veterans?
I would like to ask them what were the most critical mistakes they made in their first X-Pyrs and what strategic decisions they made to correct them. In such a complex race, learning from the experience of veterans about managing fatigue and reading the terrain is essential for a debutant.

Anything else you like to comment?
After a lifetime of enjoying the Pyrenees as a climber and pilot, participating in the X-Pyr is a dream come true. I’m not just going to compete; I’m going to share every kilometre and every thermal with my teammates and with everyone who loves mountain flying. My goal is to prove that with passion, training and a good team of friends, no journey is impossible. See you in the air!