Representing New Zealand in the biggest adventure paragliding hike and fly event in the world, the Red Bull X-Alps, from 20 June 2021
Otago
This event is the pinnacle of hike and fly. A truly exciting format that I’ve been a fan of since I first found out about paragliding and its immense potential to independently explore the mountains.
I have successfully completed (survived!) the last three events, in 2015, 2017, and 2019. People always ask, "are your mum and brother supporting you again?".
Because of travel restrictions, this edition I have supporters from within Europe:
Nicola, who has given online support in previous editions, a kiwi who still sports the accent but has lived in France in recent years;
Pierre, a Frenchman I used to work with, who once lived in Dunedin, who is very hands on (we used to install radio systems together), surfs and sails.
Neither are currently pilots but they've both had a little experience of it in the past.
The live tracking is addictive - I love sharing this experience with kiwis and the world.
Funds will help cover our expenses such as airfares, on-road costs, food, accommodation, and insurance.
Thank you everyone! 9 July 2021
The Red Bull X-Alps in 2021 was a low key effort for NZL1 especially given we didn't even know it would happen, but the generous donations from folks like you covered a good portion of our financial expenses, I got some great new flying gear, and as always there are so many people in my life that are supporting me one way or another - thank you.
While we didn't get to finish the race this time we had some good memories and considering my accident before the race it was quite lucky that I could participate at all - and things are slowly improving now. Cheers