Why did you choose the X-Pyr again?
Because it’s a true adventure! Flying in this beautiful region is always exciting and challenging.

After enjoying the place with the rain and with difficult conditions in 2022, I can’t wait to discover it with awesome flying conditions this year. (I am and I’ll stay optimistic!).

How was your race the last time?
Challenging.

The weather was not really with us. Long walks on the road, small flights… But always with the will to get further in the race! Always with the pleasure of fighting against the elements and against myself in a crazy place.

Meeting new faces, discovering the place and enjoying this challenge was a blast!
My feet suffered, my mind was sorely tested but this race made me grow.

I don’t know why, but even after suffering on these long roads, I always wanted to sign up again! Maybe we’re crazy? No… Of course we are!

What did you learn during the last edition?
I learned my body could resist 14 hours of hiking on road..
I learned to push even if the conditions are really bad. In the air and on the ground.
I learned the best way to optimise my energy expenditure.
I discovered a new region.
I discovered new people!

What does your typical training week consist of?
Has your training regime changed since the last X-Pyr?
Flying every time I can… By dealing with work, weather and family.
Running 40 to 80 kms per week (mix of trail, athletics track or road)
Climbing as many positive meters as possible. I’m in Belgium, that’s probably the most challenging part of my training. Finding the “biggest” hill (200 m +…) , get up, get down (by running or flying) and repeat as much as possible.

This year, I’m trying to run more with ballast, more on the “flat” and on the road. So I’ll be ready even if the weather is bad.

For the flying part, I try to define sub-objectives in order to work specifically on all aspects of the race.

What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
I grow with the same brand. I’ve stepped up from the Klimber 2 to the Klimber 3 and for the harness I keep the same with some small changes for the comfort and to reduce the weight.

Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
I’ll always try to stay positive, keeping in mind that it’s a huge adventure and that I’ll be there to enjoy the race.

Otherwise I’ll just try to deal with my body to stay safe and healthy.

What excites you most about participating in the X-Pyr again?
Maybe the tapas in Hondarribia?

In reality, it’s more about pushing my limits in a beautiful region, in a competitive environment and with friends.

What worries you the most about the event?
The weather!

Is there anything you like to see (or not) in the route?
I loved the turnpoint around the “Pic du Midi”. If we could get there again, it would be very nice!

Do you have a favourite part of the Pyrenees?
Not especially.

How do you know your assistant?
Pierre: I taught Pierre to fly a few years ago, living both in the same place, we used to fly a lot together and became friends. We also work together during our paragliding courses. Finally, Pierre is now in the Team X1X as an apprentice and I’m his trainer.

Antoine: we met in Belgium on our flying sites (it’s a small country.. so everyone knows everyone). Then, we used to compete together for a few years and finally we work now together as tandem pilots. Antoine was my supporter during the X-Pyr 2022.

What are your assistant’s main strengths?
Pierre: he’s calm, patient and he’ll always look for useful solutions.
Antoine: he’s a master in logistics, for the Van and behind the computer. And last but not least, he’s an amazing chef who knows my favourite meals.

What advice would you give a rookie in this event?
Be ready for the weather changes between Spain and France!

Anything else you like to comment?
Can’t wait to fight! Just this time, don’t forget to order the sun without wind! 😉

Thanks for selecting our team!