TEAMS
Lars Meerstetter
PILOT
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Switzerland
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31
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Paragliding instructor / Tandem pilot
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Hasliberg Goldern (Switzerland)
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2 X-Pyr
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OZONE Zeolite 2 ML
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OZONE Sublite L
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GRIVEL Duetto
Christof Graber
ASSISTANT
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Switzerland
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Switzerland
Team details
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What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
The adventure, the physical challenge, the wild and beautiful nature. The perfectly organised race where everyone loves the sport itself.
How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
It is really about the sport, the flying, the adventure. It is not about the show. It stays wild and free with few turnpoints. Most other races became slaloms with way too many turnpoints.
How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
The first one was intense with not enough preparation. I suffered a lot on the road, but somehow I enjoyed it anyway, otherwise I would not have come back. For the second one I was well prepared, suffered less and could enjoy it more. While racing at the front, I tried a different route… which was nice but not so fast 😉
What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Closing the gap to the leading group again with a beautiful flight on the 4th day, after losing them the day before with a different route.
What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Bombing out on the last day just before reaching the last ridge before goal.
What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
Preparation is important. Especially running on the road.
If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
Not many turnpoints to keep it as free as possible.
What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
Not many, but compared to last time I will fly a submarine-style harness.
Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
Survive the hiking in the flat at the beginning. Attack in the high mountains on good flying days.
What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
Train on the asphalt before the race. Start slowly. The first two days are hard, it will get better!
What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I invest around 15 hours a week in physical training. That is quite an effort to do. The 300-400 hours flying a year is very easy in comparison.
How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
We work together and bike together often. But as a team in a H&F race it is the first time.
Anything else you like to comment?
Looking forward to a third time in the beautiful Pyrenees with my friends.
