When and why did you start paragliding?
I had my first flight on the weekend I turned 18. Even as a little boy, I knew I wanted to fly and become a pilot. I just wasn’t sure what kind of aircraft I wanted to fly. After working for a few years, I was looking for an easy way to get up in the air. And that’s exactly what I found in paragliding. I learned with Beni Kälin (now: https://speedflyingschool.com/) and was hooked from the very first moment.

Why have you applied to participate in the X-Pyr?
After several years of participating in hike & fly competitions in Switzerland, I felt ready for a big race like the X-Pyr. I really like the fact that the race is still not far removed from its early days. A great adventure on foot and with a paraglider.

Why are you attracted to hike & fly?
Sports and running have always been a part of my life. With my passion for paragliding, it was clear that hike and fly would be exciting. This minimalism! I live in a somewhat hilly area, but not directly at a flying site. Nevertheless, I manage to run for an hour from home, take off, and soar in the spring thermals. And after another hour of flying, I land on a summit that only appears on the horizon from my home. Moments like these are magical. Flying and running also complement each other so well. I prefer to run when I know I can fly from the next hill. And I can fly to a remote pass when I know I can walk back to the trail.

What is your greatest sporting success (flying or not flying)?
2x 300 km in 2025
270 km FAI triangle in 2025

What excites you most about participating in the X-Pyr?
I can feel my motivation to train increasing. It’s a great feeling. The unknown, the adventure with a great team, people I like, having an exciting but exhausting week.

What is your best result in a H&F competition so far?
At EngelbergCup in 2025 I got 3rd place
Also 3rd place in 2023 at TrailFlyLenk

Have you flown in the Pyrenees before? Do you have a favourite area?
I visited Organya once and made a short XC flight around La Seu de Urgell.

As a supporter of Nicola in 2024, I also made a few short flights.

What does your typical training week consist of?
70-100 km running
1-2 days flying

What worries you the most about the event?
It’s not always easy to tell the difference between “still okay” and “not okay anymore.” I hope I can feel that balance well during the race.

Personally, how do you feel differently when you participate in H & F races in comparison to XC competitions?
Hiking and flying have this added advantage: if it doesn’t work out, I can walk. That gives me more options and possibilities, which makes the race exciting.

How do you know your supporter? And have your worked as athlete/supporter before?
I supported Nicola at X-Pyr 2024. The whole supporter team knows each other very well. Andrea is my girlfriend. I discovered climbing and mountaineering with Kita and Julian. We still regularly go out together today.

What advice would you ask of the race veterans?
How many socks are you packing? 😉

Anything else you like to comment?