What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
Great challenge, great flying area, beautiful mountains, nice organisation.
How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
You can only compare it to X-Alps in terms of lenght and duration but the terrain is more demanding, bushy, spiky and dry, as well as its not marked, and the flying is very different than what you would encounter in the Alps. Also it is physically more demanding because of high temperatures and high moisture,
How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
It was new as I had never flown there before, I was also out of my comfort zone as the temperatures were really high but overall it was a great race and a challenging one.
What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Flying in a new area was awesome!
What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
That I bombed out on the third and really important day, losing my advantage.
What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
That the day kicks off much later in the Pyrenees than in the Alps.
If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
Maybe to place turnpoints away from airspaces.
What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
Totally different equipment. Different glider and different harness.
Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
It always depends on weather, situation and route. Especially in hike and fly you have to be flexible all the time and adjust as you go.
What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
Dont start the day too early, bring lots of water and make sure your navigation is on point.
What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I fly 200+ hours per year and I train every day regardless of competitions, as it is a huge part of my life as a coach.
How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
She is my girlfriend, as well as a pilot herself and really good at navigation.
Anything else you like to comment?
Have a great race everyone and thank you for hosting this great comp!
