SAFA Skysailor Magazine

23 September | October 2022 SKY SAILOR Successful first Hike & Fly X-Slovenia 2022 by Till Gottbrath From 23 to 25 June 2022 the first X-Slovenia took place. The Hike & Fly competition lasted three days and covered 150km as the crow flies. After the start in Ajdovščina, it went via the turnpoints Nova Gorica, Kobarid, a take-off above Bled, and Gozd to Mojstrana at the foot of Triglav (Slovenia's highest mountain). The winner was professional biathlete and Olympian Lenart Oblak, just 13 minutes ahead of Bojan Gaberžek, who finished three hours ahead of third, Tomaž Eržen. The weather conditions were demanding – thunderstorms, strong winds, large cloud fields, low bases – so a lot of hiking had to be done. Many athletes gave up and of 20 starters only eight reached the finish line. However, this did not dampen the good mood among the athletes. Having already taken part in other Hike & Fly races, I found this a very well-organised event, carried out with a lot of heart and soul. Thanks on behalf of all participants to Samo Božič, Toni Pljakoski and their team. The scenery was breathtaking at times – in the truest sense of the word – and the flying was challenging. Then there was the heat! I was thrilled by the atmosphere among athletes and supporters. The X-Slovenia is a real tip for those who want to be out and about for longer than a 33-hour Bordairrace, without getting extreme straight away. I will be back next year! Visit XSlovenia and Airtribune for more.