When and why did you start paragliding?
I only started paragliding just so I could get into aerial photography, although my good friend and supporter Tiago Lages kept on telling me I should start flying for years and years prior. Not having a clue to what was in store was probably the reason why paragliding took such a strong hold of me right from the very first flight in 2012. My instructor, Vítor Baía, has been instrumental in my flying to this day, hence he also makes part of the team.

Why have you applied to participate in the X-Pyr?
Kind of a long story but I guess that, unconsciously, I have been gradually training my mind and body for an X-Pyr since 2018, even though the prospect of actually participating in one seemed unrealistic at the time. That year was when I “had to do” my first hike & fly so I could return home after landing in the boondocks with David Chaumet and he showed me what could be done, and also when João Veiga did his second X-Pyr. Both events were truly inspirational!

Why are you attracted to hike & fly?
The never-ending possibilities and the completeness of it. The connection to the mountains is superlative and, on top of that, hiking makes flying even more worthwhile and tastier!

What is your greatest sporting success (flying or not flying)?
Probably getting 2nd place flying a high-end EN B wing in the Sports class in the Serra da Estrela leg of the 2018 Portuguese League.

What excites you most about participating in the X-Pyr?
The prospect of crossing the Pyrenees per se, the landscapes and, above all, the adventure with my team!

What is your best result in a H&F competition so far?
I have never done a H&F competition.

Have you flown in the Pyrenees before? Do you have a favourite area?
Not quite, the closest to the Pyrenees I’ve flown was Ager.

What does your typical training week consist of?
It has been a mix of long hikes with and without the backpack, as well as tempo, easy and interval runs, and some bike and strength training.

What worries you the most about the event?
Making poorly thought-out decisions putting the team under stress.

Personally, how do you feel differently when you participate in H & F races in comparison to XC competitions?
Even though I have never done a H&F competition, I guess there’s more room for different tactical decisions compared to XC competitions.

How do you know your supporter? And have your worked as athlete/supporter before?
I only fly because Tiago Lages was always trying to get me into paragliding, but I couldn’t do it because of work and another expensive hobby (photography). However, he persevered and after 10 years I finally caved in, which was way too long! However thankful, I often say I lost 10 years of my life… he should have been more convincing :). No, this will be our first time.

What advice would you ask of the race veterans?
How to keep a cool head after a few days into the race.

Anything else you like to comment?