17/03/2009: South Africa Adventure Inc - Red Bull X-Alps 43 year old Pierre Carter has had his eye on competing at the Red Bull X-Alps since the event began in 2003. Now the building contractor from Johannesburg has his chance and is proud to be the first participant from Africa.
The concept is simple and unique: fly or hike between set start and finish points, negotiating turn points along the way. Athletes must carry their flying equipment at all times, which weighs a hefty 20kg, as they hike across 3000m high mountains or fly over turbulent glaciers and hostile peaks.
The race goes on day and night, sun or snow, until the first pilot reaches the goal.
The rules in a nutshell:
- Athletes travel only by flying with their paragliders or by foot
- A paraglider, harness, resuce, parachute, helmet, emeregency signal rocket, reflector belt and tracking device must be carried at all times
- Athletes may choose any route they like, but must pass all turnpoints
- Each athlete has only one supporter to look after them
- Travel through tunnels that connect valleys are prohibited
International Visual Flight Rules (VFR) air regulations must be adhered to
- The race stops 48 hours after the winner arrives in goal
