What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
What keeps me coming back is the idea of setting out on a multi-day trek, in unpredictable conditions, with a close-knit team, sleeping wherever the journey takes us, with this wonderful goal in mind: starting at the ocean, crossing a legendary mountain range using only my own two feet and my paraglider, and finally reaching the sea!
How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
The vast majority of other races take place in the Alps. In the Pyrenees, every kilometer is hard-earned, and the pace is completely different given how difficult it is to navigate the mountain range.
How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
The race went well; we shared some incredible moments, but the pace was too slow, and we were frustrated that we didn’t make it to the finish line.
What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
An astonishing 9-hour flight over the Spanish Pyrenees!
What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
We were stuck in the high mountains because of thunderstorms, which caused us to lose a lot of time.
What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
I’ve learned that it’s always better to walk through a thunderstorm than to experiment one in the air.
If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
Don’t go to Ariège under any circumstances 😉
What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
I have a new harness (sub) Ascendant Zian
Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
Conduct a more thorough reconnaissance of the route in advance and perform a more detailed weather analysis to optimize the route as much as possible.
What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
1. If the weather is unpredictable, save your energy for the first two days
2. It’s better to watch the rain from the ground than from the air
3. Keep moving no matter what—whether on foot or in flight—1 km is 1 km, no matter how you get there
What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I train 3 to 4 times a week, doing ski mountaineering, running with my backpack, and cycling, and I fly whenever I get the chance.
I fly 200 solo hours a year and 500 tandem flight hours.
How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
Andy is a paragliding friend but it will be our first season as an athlete / supporter team !
Anything else you like to comment?
I cannot wait to be back for this great adventure with my team !
