SAFA Skysailor Magazine

22 SKY SAILOR July | August 2023 New records fall at the 2023 Red Bull XAlps Chrigel Maurer proved once again to be untouchable as the Swiss athlete claimed the Red Bull X-Alps title for a record eighth time, achieving victory in the fastest time ever recorded in the race’s 20-year history. Pushing the boundaries of adventure sports and attracting athletes from 18 different countries, the race extends over a staggering 1223km through the European Alps and is hailed as the world’s toughest adventure race, blending hiking, paragliding, and climbing, in an awe-inspiring alpine landscape. Athletes, veterans, and rookies alike gathered in Kitzbühel, Austria – each with their unique goals and strategies, as they embarked on an extreme journey, testing their limits. Race Preview Known for the adrenaline-fuelled Hahnenkamm downhill ski race, the Austrian ski region of Kitzbühel-Kirchberg now finds itself at the heart of the world’s toughest hike & fly race. This year’s 1223km circuit traces its way around the majestic peaks of the Alps. The journey traverses Austria, Germany, Swit- zerland, France, and Italy, and culminates in the picturesque town of Zell am See, Austria. The line-up is as diverse as it is formidable. Seventeen battle-hardened veterans, including seven-time champion Maurer, alongside 15 rookies navigated the demanding route by hiking, paragliding, and for the first time climbing the Drei Zinnen TP via Ferrata. The RB X-Alps is a testament to human en- durance. Athletes anticipate to ascend around 3000m vertical daily, roughly akin to four Mt Everest ascents from sea level. With about half their race time on foot, athletes burn around 6000 calories daily. Christian Maurer reaches Zell Am See Photo: Christian Lorenz, Red Bull Content Pool