Why did you choose the X-Pyr again??
Because last time we spent some unforgettable days with my team in the Pyrenees. After a hard, but great week, I couldn’t make it to the Mediterranean Sea, this time I hope to get this reward by having an unforgettable time again.

How was your race last time??
I was able to somehow get through the first two days on the road to be on the Spanish side on the third day. This very good flying day I was able to make good use of it to cover a lot of distance. So I was back in France to walk three more days. Finally back in Spain I could finish the race with some beautiful flights again. It was mostly hard and demanding, with some very rewarding moments in the sky.

What did you learn during the last edition??
I learned about the limits of my body, unfortunately I learned about the wet weather conditions downwind and I learned that having a good time with the team will last longer than getting a good result.

What does your typical training week consist of?
Has your training regimen changed since the last X-Pyr?.
It consists of 6-10 hours of endurance training, usually ski touring or hiking and XC flying as much as possible. Since the last X-Pyr I’m training more on the flat with the backpack, to be prepared for the first few days.

What changes have you introduced in your equipment for this edition??
I’m still with the best gear available, I’ve just changed the wing and harness to newer ones.

Apart from flying far and walking little, what will be your strategy during the race??
Trying to be in the right place at the right time to fly, no matter if I have to go fast or slow on the ground.

What are you most excited about participating in the X-Pyr again??
Flying high above all these beautiful lakes, mountains and small glaciers with a lot of tailwind towards the Mediterranean Sea.

What are you most looking forward to about the event??
Walking in the rain on a main road with sore feet and knees while cars whiz by at 80 km/h.

Is there anything you would like to see (or not) on the route?.
I would like to see the French ocean of fog from above, flying high on the Spanish side. Not from below, please!

Do you have a favorite part of the Pyrenees?
Flying the High Pyrenees around Castejon de Sos/Pico Aneto and for hiking in the Pyrenees National Park on the French side, with its millions of wild lakes.

How do you know your assistant??
He’s a very good friend, we live, work and fly in the same place. We get drunk together (not so often) and go to kebab together (very often). Of course, we have had many adventures together in the air, in the mountains and in the snow.

What are the main strengths of your assistant??
He is a very experienced paraglider pilot and also strong on climbs. So he can help me with race tactics and push me uphill. His biggest strength for the race perhaps is his calm and down-to-earth demeanor, always acting considerately.

What advice would you give to a rookie in this race??
Have a good time with your team!