Professional paragliding pilot Markus Anders participated in the world’s toughest adventure race; the Red Bull X-Alps. During this race around 30 athletes run, hike and fly by paraglider across the Alps with the same goal: get to the finish line. Markus Anders has been actively involved in paragliding for a significant portion of his life, constantly pushing his limits. We look back on this intensive race with Markus where he tells you more about his experience, preparations and used Xtorm gear.
The Red Bull X-Alps race was an incredible and challenging experience. It was my third time participating, and this time, I successfully completed the race in 7 days, finishing on the 9th rank. The race is known for pushing participants to their physical and mental limits, and it demands strategic planning and precise decision-making throughout. Overall, it was an intense and thrilling adventure that tested my abilities as a paragliding pilot.
Unforgettable moment
The most impressive moment of the entire adventure was undoubtedly the flight around Mt. Blanc. I had spent two days doing this in 2021, but this year, it was even more spectacular. The flight covered a total of 210 kilometers, starting at Niesen, flying around Mt. Blanc, and finally landing in the south face of Dufourspitze in the evening. The sheer magnitude and beauty of the landscape were just amazing, to the point that I forgot where I had taken off in the morning for a while when I had landed. It was an experience that left a profound and lasting impression on me.
Battling adverse weather and fatique
The Red Bull X-Alps race presents numerous challenges and obstacles for participants. Some of the biggest hurdles I faced included adverse weather conditions, fatigue, and the mental strain of navigating through challenging terrains. To conquer these obstacles, I relied on my training and experience as a paragliding pilot. Staying focused, making calculated decisions, and closely monitoring weather forecasts were crucial in navigating safely. Additionally, having a strong support team and staying mentally determined helped me overcome the physical and mental fatigue during the race.
Crossing the finish line
Completing the Red Bull X-Alps race was a moment of immense joy and accomplishment. When I crossed the finish line, my first thoughts were a mix of relief, pride, and gratitude. Relief that I had successfully completed the challenging race, pride in my performance and ranking, and immense gratitude towards my support team, fellow participants, and everyone who had contributed to making the adventure possible.
How to prepare
Preparing for an adventure like the Red Bull X-Alps race requires comprehensive training and preparation. This involves physical fitness training to build endurance, strength, and stamina, as paragliding can be physically demanding. Additionally, mental training is essential to stay focused, make quick decisions, and handle the pressure of competition. Familiarizing oneself with the race route, assessing potential challenges, and developing strategies are also vital aspects of preparation. Lastly, assembling a reliable and skilled support team to assist throughout the race is crucial for a successful adventure.
Reliable power is crucial
Xtorm products played a crucial role in ensuring I had access to reliable power throughout the adventure. In a race like the Red Bull X-Alps, where staying connected and having access to electronic devices is essential, having dependable portable power sources is invaluable. Also the Power Station XP1300 helped us along the way to get all our devices charged in time. So we kept my communication devices, GPS, Xtorm Power Bank, and other essential gadgets charged even in remote locations, allowing me to stay informed and connected during the race.
My advice
For those aspiring to embark on similar adventurous journeys or compete in challenging events like the Red Bull X-Alps, I would offer the following advice:
- Start Training: Prioritize physical and mental training to prepare yourself for the demands of the adventure. Consider external help with mental coaches and fitness trainers
- Build experience: Engage in various paragliding competitions and expeditions to gain valuable experience and improve your skills.
- Plan strategically: Thoroughly analyze the route and potential challenges beforehand, and create a strategic plan to navigate through the journey effectively. You can start with small flights or competitions to practise this!
- Stay focused and flexible: During the adventure, stay focused on your goals, but also be adaptable to unexpected changes or obstacles. Weather situation can change quite fast. You need to be at the right place at the right time.
- Form a reliable support team: Surround yourself with a skilled and trustworthy support team who can assist you throughout the journey.
- Respect safety: Safety should always be the top priority. Never compromise safety for the sake of pushing limits
- Enjoy the journey: Embrace the adventure and appreciate the beautiful moments and landscapes that come your way. It's an extraordinary experience that few get to have.
Markus' Power Products
100W
€399,00
100W USB-C PD
€32,95
USB to USB-C
€22,95