What do you like about the X-Pyr that keeps you coming back for more?
I love the idea of crossing mountains from ocean to sea, from beach to beach. I like the Pyrenees. It is also good that I know already some places, which can be small advantage. Good organisation, challenging race, but still a very friendly event. For me it is a good distance and time on track (7 days) – it is ideal. Not so short, not so long.

How is the X-Pyr different from other H&F competitions you have taken part in?
It is unique! One direction with different stages (small hills, mountains, flats …). That idea to start from beach to beach and cross ‘continent’ is amazing.

How was your race in your previous edition(s)?
I am always incredibly happy to reach the goal, no matter the year. Every edition has its own story.

My first time was in 2014. It was my very first hike & fly race, and suddenly I was fighting against legends like Toma Coconea, and also against Aaron Durogati on the last day. Because of a storm on the course line, I landed in Andorra. I simply walked through it and continued flying. Everyone later told me it was a smart tactical decision. Honestly, it wasn’t — it was pure luck and the only option I had. I didn’t even know there was a country called Andorra 😄.
I finished that edition together with my good friend Peter Kostrhun and my sister Denisa Mayerová, taking 4th place, just behind Toma Coconea.

2016 was absolutely perfect. We looked like a completely amateur team — four of us (my sister, her boyfriend, me, and our dog 😄) squeezed into a small old Škoda Octavia. We even had a guitar with us. Teams with big caravans started coming to our “camp” just to barbecue, sing, and party together.
One of the strongest memories from that year is sleeping on a mountain ridge on the last night. The next day I met Aaron, who was incredibly kind — he gave me water and a battery pack, even though he had also slept on the ridge without any supporters. That year, we finished in 2nd place, and it felt truly special.

In 2018, it was a more “professional” year. I was racing with Jarda Jindra, his caravan, and my sports friend Tomáš Bláha. We finished in 3rd place, fighting up front with Maxime and Chrigel. The level was extremely high, and the competition intense.

After a short break, I returned again in 2024, this time with my good paragliding friend Martin Jansa and my colleague from work Jan Škoda. We had a great time together. The route was more in France this year, which made it especially interesting. We made a few small mistakes, and the field was clearly stronger — many pilots are now faster and more competitive than ever. Still, I was once again deeply happy to finish and reach the goal.

Every edition reminds me why I love this race so much — the challenge, the people, the unexpected moments, and the simple joy of making it to the end.

What was the best thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Low saves are probably the best feeling. Or that moment you know you can finish the race before deadline.

What was the worst thing that happened to you in your last X-Pyr?
Close calls, I’d say. A few dangerous situations. Nothing dramatic on its own, but moments where you realise how thin the margin is. Situations that force you to slow down, think clearly, and respect the mountains again.

What did you learn during the previous edition(s)?
Getting to know a few places. This helps me a lot to visualise route, where to fly etc.

If you could have input into the route, what would you suggest to the organisation?
I would keep the route simpler and shorter. It doesn’t always need to be extremely difficult or dangerous to be interesting. Even a “simple” crossing can be exciting. More pilots reaching goal means more stories, more emotion, and more fun for everyone.

What changes have you made to your equipment for this edition?
I am looking forward for new and safe new GIN’s H & F glider and harness. This will be a big change for me.

Apart from flying far and walking little, what will your strategy be during the race?
I would like to stay safe and calm. I hope we can enjoy it with all the team.

What three pieces of advice would you give to Rookies in the race?
Try to to keep emotions under control within the team. Train with your team in race mode. Stay safe and enjoy.

What about your training? How many hours do you fly a year?
I am just flying here in Czechia and few flights in the Alps when weather is fine. Otherwise I like other sports like cross-country skiing, pumpfoiling, running as preparation.

How do you know your supporter? And have you worked as athlete/supporter before?
Martin Jansa is very good pilot, even a test pilot. He has perfect supporter skills and mood. I am so happy to have him in the team.

Anything else you like to comment?