#257- Chrigel Maurer and the Safety Debate

Two weeks ago at the World Championships in Costelo, Brazil a competition pilot was killed. This tragedy sparked an immediate and fiery response on social media calling for a top-down change at CIVL, the governing body of Category 1 competitions. Interestingly, two years ago during the World’s in France there were over a dozen incidents, many which lead to serious injuries…but the blame was more sequestered to the pilots ability and decision-making, not the organization. Last week Chrigel sent me an 8 minute voicemail during a training session laying out his own personal thoughts on this charged debate. So we made an effort to sit down immediately and discuss it all without all of the online emotion. Who’s ultimately in charge of safety at competitions? We explore the historical context of safety measures and the comparisons with what’s going on now to what’s happened in the past, the stress levels experienced by pilots during competitions, and the importance of training and experience. The conversation also touches on accident statistics, the responsibilities of pilots versus organizers, and the development of gear and its impact on safety. We conclude with thoughts on future directions for safety and training in the sport.

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Takeaways

The paragliding community experiences waves of safety concerns and performance debates.
Stress levels during competition can significantly affect pilot performance and enjoyment.
Training and experience are crucial for handling advanced gliders safely.
Accident statistics reveal a need for better safety awareness in paragliding.
Pilots must take personal responsibility for their safety during competitions.
Organizers face challenges in balancing safety and competition excitement.
Gear development should prioritize safety alongside performance.
A culture of safety needs to be fostered from the beginning of training.
More communication between pilots and organizers can improve safety measures.
Future improvements in paragliding safety require collaboration between athletes and manufacturers.

Sound Bites

“It’s a wicked dangerous sport, just period.”
“We have to develop new stuff.”
“We need to find solutions together.”

Chapters

00:00 The Safety Debate in Paragliding
04:51 Understanding Stress Levels in Competition
09:41 The Role of Training and Experience
14:15 Accident Statistics and Safety Perception
19:12 The Responsibility of Pilots vs. Organizers
24:08 Gear Development and Safety Concerns
29:01 Future Directions for Safety and Training

#256 From Newbie to the Red Bull X-Alps with Sebrand Warren

Sebrand Warren got his start paragliding just a few short years ago in the US but got hooked immediately and set his sights on the ultimate challenge- the Red Bull X-Alps. Last year he dedicated himself 110% to the race by moving his life, job, and girlfriend to France to learn the intricacies of the Alps and the relentless physical training that is required to compete. In this episode we discuss the challenges and experiences surrounding the Red Bull X-Alps, including Sebrand’s recovery from a serious injury that happened just days after the race ended, the mental challenges faced during the race, and the importance of team dynamics. We explore the balance between expectations and performance, the significance of finding joy in the pursuit, and the impact of relationships on risk-taking in adventure sports. The conversation highlights the journey of personal growth and the lessons learned through competition and camaraderie. Sebrand was the last athlete who made goal in this year’s edition of the Red Bull X-Alps and became the race darling during the event for his endless enthusiasm in the face of struggle as well as his openness with the mental hardships he experienced.

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Takeaways

Recovery from injury is a long and challenging process.
Mental health plays a significant role in performance.
Team dynamics can greatly influence race outcomes.
Expectations can be both motivating and detrimental.
Finding joy in the sport is crucial for success.
Communication with team members enhances performance.
Risk management is essential in high-stakes sports.
Relationships can be impacted by the risks involved in adventure sports.
Learning from experiences is key to growth.
Having fun can improve performance in challenging conditions.

Sound Bites

“I should land right next to him.”
“It was a gift from God.”
“We were all rookies in this race.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recovery Journey
05:57 Post-Race Hangover and Mental Challenges
11:45 The Decision to Pursue Paragliding Full-Time
17:46 Navigating Sponsorship and Financial Realities
21:29 The Prologue Experience and Mental Struggles
29:34 Finding Peace and Enjoyment in the Race
35:11 The Burden of Expectations
39:21 Finding Flow in the Race
44:31 Memorable Moments in the Race
48:24 The Importance of Fun in Flying
53:16 Navigating Risk in Relationships
58:53 The Impact of Parenthood on Risk-Taking
01:03:42 Team Dynamics and Growth

#255 XC Concepts in depth with Calef Letorney

In this episode I dive in once again with Calef Letorney to explore advanced cross-country techniques, focusing on thermal flying, the impact of wind, the concept of shark flying and a lot more. We discuss the importance of understanding day conditions, recognizing when to shift gears in flight, and the strategies that can lead to more efficient navigation in the air. The conversation is rich with insights and personal experiences, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced paragliders. We further explore the intricacies of cross-country (XC) flying, focusing on racing strategies, thermal management, gliding tips and the importance of teamwork. We discuss the nuances of timing in racing, understanding when to move on from climbs, and the significance of risk-taking in achieving success. The dialogue also covers practical landing techniques, managing stress during landings, and the dynamics of team flying, emphasizing the need for communication and collaboration among pilots. The conversation concludes with anecdotes that highlight the unpredictable nature of flying and the camaraderie that develops among pilots. Enjoy!

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Takeaways

The fundamentals of cross-country flying include good climbing and gliding techniques.
Understanding the day’s pressure and thermal conditions is crucial for effective flying.
Patience is key on sticky days; waiting can lead to better climbs.
Wind direction significantly affects flying strategies and climb efficiency.
Shark flying allows for more efficient navigation through the air without unnecessary turns.
Recognizing when to shift gears in flight can make a significant difference in performance.
High pressure days can present unique challenges and opportunities for pilots.
Visual mapping of conditions helps in finding the best thermals and glides.
Team flying techniques can enhance performance in competitive settings.
Experience and observation are essential for making quick decisions in flight. Flying fast requires discipline and understanding of the day’s conditions.
Knowing when to move on from a climb is crucial for XC success.
Risk-taking can lead to better positions in competitive flying.
Optimism is key in XC flying; planning for success is essential.
Practicing tight landings is important for all pilots.
Managing stress during landings can prevent accidents.
Leaside flying can be beneficial but requires caution and skill.
Team dynamics in flying can significantly enhance performance.
Sampling different air is vital for finding better climbs.
The unpredictability of flying often leads to memorable experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Paragliding 301
02:55 Understanding Weather Conditions and Their Impact
05:55 Navigating High Pressure Days
08:56 The Role of Wind in Paragliding
11:54 Shark Flying Techniques
14:43 Strategies for Efficient Cross-Country Flying
30:48 Mastering the Art of Gliding
37:45 Recognizing Opportunities in Flight
51:16 Shifting Gears: Speed vs. Safety
58:28 Planning for Success in XC Flying
01:01:00 Tight Landing Zone Strategies
01:07:27 Mastering Tight Landings
01:16:46 Understanding Lee Side Thermal Strategies
01:24:37 Effective Team Flying Strategies
01:36:41 The Art of Two-Liner Technique

Bonus Episode- Thermalling with Mitch Riley

Veteran PWC pilot, long-time paragliding instructor, Red Bull X-Alps competitor and 2025 US National Champion Mitch Riley explains how to climb more efficiently during a weather day of the Red Rocks Wide Open this September 2025. He covers ground from the basics to the expert and everything in between. Looking to fly faster or farther? Tune in.

This content is only available to Members of the Cloudbase Mayhem. If you have subscribed to our newsletter or have supported us in the past through PayPal, Patreon or another way you should have an account all set up with us and you can login below (username is typically your email). If you aren't a member, all we've ever asked for is a buck a show so please if you can join now! Can't afford a buck a show? We want all our content to be available to the flying community regardless of your financial position, so just send us an email and we'll sort you out.

#254 Simon Oberrauner and Cracking the Code

Austrian athlete Simon Oberauner has competed in the Red Bull X-Alps five times and has always finished in 6th place or better. In this year’s race he placed third for the second time, a mere seconds behind Lars Meerstetter after over 1200 kilometers (course line!) and 8 days of ferocious racing across the Alps. Simon reflects on his amazing experiences in this years race and the importance of attitude, teamwork, and training evolution. He shares insights on navigating risks, the legacy of the 8-time champion Chrigel Maurer, and offers suggestions for improving the race experience. Simon emphasizes the balance between safety and adventure, highlighting the need for understanding one’s strengths and the role of a supportive team in achieving success. Simon is the athlete everyone loves to love, he’s always smiling, always having fun, always relaxed. And clearly it works when it comes to results!

Follow Simon on Instagram.

Simon competes in the 2025 Red Bull X-Alps. Photo Adi Geisseger

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Takeaways

Simon’s consistent performance in X-Alps showcases his dedication and skill.
A positive attitude is crucial for success in challenging races.
Team dynamics play a significant role in an athlete’s performance.
Training should evolve with experience and competition demands.
Understanding one’s strengths is key to navigating the race effectively.
The importance of enjoying the journey, not just focusing on results.
Kriegel’s legacy sets a high standard for competitors.
Risk management is essential in adventure racing.
The balance between safety and adventure is a constant challenge.
Improvements in race organization can enhance the experience for athletes and fans.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: Reflecting on Past Races
05:21 The Secret to Success: Attitude and Enjoyment
09:16 Team Dynamics: The Importance of Support
14:18 Building a Winning Team: Roles and Responsibilities
23:07 Training Evolution: From Adventure to Competition
27:26 Key Insights for Aspiring Athletes
33:57 Kriegel’s Legacy: The Challenge of the Champion
40:39 Navigating Risks: Decisions in Adverse Conditions
49:20 The Nature of Adventure: Risk vs. Reward
01:04:15 The Future of X-Alps: Suggestions for Improvement

#253 Ask Me Anything with Karlis Jaunpetrovičs

We depart from the Red Bull X-Alps in this episode and dive into a whole bunch of questions that have come in this past year from our listeners. And instead of answering them on my own we return to Karlis Jaunpetrovičs, former test pilot for BGD and current head of his own instructional SIV, coaching, and guiding (as well as running competitions) company Flying Karlis. We cover a lot of very solid ground here, especially when we got into reserves. Topics include:

•⁠ ⁠Stepping down in glider class

•⁠ ⁠Stepping up in glider class

•⁠ ⁠All about harnesses… open vs pod, fairing vs no fairing, seatboard vs hammock, sub vs non-sub. 

•⁠ ⁠Coming back to paragliding after being away from it

•⁠ ⁠Stepping away from PG, what’s on the other side?

•⁠ ⁠A more practical discussion about SIV, also practicing maneuvers outside of SIV

•⁠ ⁠How to climb better

•⁠ ⁠How to forecast better

•⁠ ⁠How to glide better, and everyday speedbar use

•⁠ ⁠Mitigating the testosterone driven decision making afflicting our sport

•⁠ ⁠All about reserves from a reserve expert (round vs square vs rogallo, lightweight vs regular weight, how to decide the actual right size, actual lifespan of reserves, repacking them safely, factors on reserve/bridle connections, sink rate, why isn’t projected area advertised? In depth discussion about down-planing and size of reserves relative to size of wing, tips on throwing in different situations)”

Enjoy!

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If you like what you hear, please consider becoming a subscriber to ensure our high-quality content continues. You can also help contribute to a healthier, greener planet through our partnership with Our Forest. See our donation and subscription options here.

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#252 Beyond Limits with Celine Lorenz

Join us as we delve into the remarkable flying career of Celine Lorenz, a passionate paraglider who took to the skies at a young age. Discover how a tandem flight gift sparked her lifelong love for flying, leading her to save every penny for her license and equipment. Celine shares her early experiences, from working at her mother’s refuge in the Alps to fund her dream, to the determination that drove her to skip school for training. This episode captures the essence of Celine’s adventurous spirit and her unwavering commitment to flying which lead her to compete on the World Cup and the Red Bull X-Alps, competing this year for the second time. Celine shares her personal experiences navigating the race’s formidable challenges, from daring flights over rugged terrain to the mental resilience required to overcome setbacks. Discover how Celine’s strategic mindset and adaptability played a crucial role in her adventure, leading to unforgettable moments and lessons learned. Enjoy this inspiring tale of courage, determination, and the spirit of adventure that defined Celine’s race.

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If you like what you hear, please consider becoming a subscriber to ensure our high-quality content continues. You can also help contribute to a healthier, greener planet through our partnership with Our Forest. See our donation and subscription options here.

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Takeaways:

  1. Mental Resilience: Celine emphasizes the importance of mental strength and adaptability in overcoming the challenges of the X-Alps race.
  2. Strategic Decision-Making: The episode highlights how Celine’s strategic planning and quick decision-making were crucial in navigating the race.
  3. Risk Management: Celine shares insights into her approach to managing risks and ensuring safety during competitive flying.
  4. Personal Growth: The race provided Celine with valuable lessons and experiences that contributed to her personal and professional growth.
  5. Adventure and Camaraderie: Celine’s journey is filled with thrilling adventures and the camaraderie of fellow competitors.

Chapters:

  1. Introduction to Celine Lorenz and the X-Alps (0:00 – 2:30)
    • Celine’s background and introduction to the X-Alps race.
  2. Early Passion for Paragliding (2:31 – 8:00)
    • How a tandem flight gift sparked Celine’s love for paragliding.
  3. Preparing for the X-Alps Race (8:01 – 15:00)
    • Celine’s training and preparation for the race.
  4. Challenges and Strategies in the Race (15:01 – 25:00)
    • The mental and physical challenges faced during the X-Alps.
  5. Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned (25:01 – 35:00)
    • Celine’s reflections on key moments and lessons from the race.
  6. Conclusion and Reflections (35:01 – End)
    • Celine’s thoughts on future races and her overall experience.

#251 Risk and the Red Bull X-Alps with 9 time competitor Tom De Dorlodot

In this conversation, four-time competitor and 2-time color commentator Gavin McClurg and 9-time competitor and Red Bull athlete Tom De Dorlodot discuss Tom’s continued recovery journey after a serious injury over a year ago snow-kiting in Norway and his recent emotional return to flying. They reflect on both of their recent Red Bull X-Alps experiences this June, exploring the dynamics of risk management in paragliding, the influence of gear and technology on performance, and the impact of media on the public perception of risk. The conversation also touches on the camaraderie among pilots and the future of the Red Bull X-Alps, emphasizing the balance between competitiveness and safety in high-stakes flying. We discuss the complexities of paragliding competitions, particularly the Red Bull X-Alps. They explore the pressures faced by athletes, the role of the organization when it comes to safety, and the tricky balance between racing and responsibility. The discussion also touches on the evolution of the race, the impact of increased turn points on strategy and safety, and the need for qualifying standards to enhance safety and performance. They emphasize the importance of community feedback and the future direction of the race, advocating for a more collaborative approach to improve the experience for all participants.

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If you like what you hear, please consider becoming a subscriber to ensure our high-quality content continues. You can also help contribute to a healthier, greener planet through our partnership with Our Forest. See our donation and subscription options here.

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Takeaways

Tom’s emotional return to flying after recovery.
The importance of community support in paragliding.
Experiencing the X-Alps from a support role offers new insights.
Risk management is crucial in high-stakes flying.
Gear choice can significantly impact performance.
Media coverage influences public perception of risk.
The camaraderie among top pilots is essential for success.
Athletes must balance competitiveness with safety.
The evolution of safety standards in paragliding.
Future X-Alps may see changes in risk management strategies. The pressure on organizers is increasing while pilots face less accountability.
Safety in paragliding competitions is a shared responsibility between athletes and organizers.
The thrill of flying comes with inherent risks that pilots must manage.
The evolution of the race has introduced new challenges and pressures for athletes.
Turn points can create unnecessary stress and detract from the adventure aspect of the race.
Athletes should be encouraged to make their own decisions regarding safety and risk.
The need for mental coaching and preparation for athletes is crucial.
Community feedback is essential for the future of the race and its organization.
The balance between safety measures and the spirit of adventure is delicate.
Qualifying standards could enhance the safety and competitiveness of the race.

Sound Bites

“It’s been a year of times in the hospital.”
“Your extreme is all normal.”
“We need a very clear vision for 2027.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Conversation
03:01 Tom’s Recovery Journey and Recent Flights
05:51 Life on the Island and Community Connections
08:49 Experiencing the X-Alps from a Support Role
11:51 Insights on Risk Management in Paragliding
15:02 Comparing Racing Strategies and Mindsets
17:45 Weather Conditions and Their Impact on Performance
20:59 The Role of Gear in Competitive Paragliding
23:51 Kriegel’s Performance and Emotional Decisions
26:48 Conclusion and Future Outlook
33:00 The Art of Technical Piloting
34:45 Gear Decisions and Performance
39:04 The Champion’s Mindset and Comeback
42:28 Risk Management in Adventure Racing
52:04 The Balance of Freedom and Safety
01:01:09 The Evolution of Paragliding Safety
01:11:25 The Risks and Responsibilities of Paragliding
01:14:05 Adventure vs. Competition in Racing
01:16:46 The Impact of Turn Points on Racing Dynamics
01:20:08 The Evolution of Race Strategy and Pressure
01:23:49 Preparing Athletes for the Challenges Ahead
01:26:43 Constructive Feedback and Community Engagement
01:31:52 The Importance of Sportsmanship and Respect
01:39:50 The Future of Racing and Community Collaboration

#250, Red Bull X-Alps Post-Race with Tanguy, Rémi, Jared, Juraj, Jean, and Shane

Just hours after the athletes finished this years stunning Red Bull X-Alps I caught up with Tanguy Renoud-Goud (FRA 4), Rémi Bourdelle (FRA 5), Jared Scheid (USA), Juraj Koreñ (SVK), Jean De Biolley (BEL 2) and Shane Tighe (AUS) to quickly get their highs and lows from the race, most memorable moments and the toughest question to answer- will they do it again? We are releasing this podcast as a regular audio podcast as well as a video version. All the recordings were done at the athlete camp. Tuck in!

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#249 Koen Vancampenhoudt and gaining knowledge through passion

In this conversation, Belgian pilot Koen Vancampenhoudt shares his journey as a paraglider, highlighting his record-breaking flight in Mexico, the challenges he faced, and his early experiences flying with zero information in Fiji. He reflects on the importance of safety training, the thrill of downwind flying, and the lessons learned throughout his flying career. Koen emphasizes the need for proper instruction and the value of learning from experiences, both good and bad, in the world of paragliding. In this often hysterical episode Koen shares his journey as a paragliding enthusiast and salesman, discussing the challenges and triumphs of flying in the Carolinas, his several experiences with legal troubles, and the importance of community in the sport. He reflects on his goals before turning 50, including long-distance flying and mastering acro techniques, while also emphasizing the need for proper coaching and the thrill of towing. The discussion highlights the balance between personal aspirations and family life, as well as the camaraderie built through the Carolina Tow Club. Enjoy!

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Takeaways
Koen’s record-breaking flight in Mexico was unexpected and thrilling.
The journey to the plateau involved navigating challenging conditions.
Downwind flying offers a unique thrill and sense of freedom.
Early experiences in Fiji shaped Koen’s passion for paragliding.
Safety training is crucial for all pilots, regardless of experience.
Learning from mistakes is an essential part of becoming a better pilot.
Koen emphasizes the importance of having a reserve parachute.
The camaraderie among pilots enhances the flying experience.
Flexibility in planning is key to successful flights.
Koen’s journey reflects the adventurous spirit of paragliding. Fear can hinder progress, but proper coaching can help overcome it.
Persistence and meticulous practice lead to skill advancement.
Exploring new flying sites can be both rewarding and risky.
Legal issues can arise from adventurous pursuits in paragliding.
Community building is essential for a supportive flying environment.
Long-distance flying requires planning and understanding of conditions.
Towing offers a different experience compared to foot launching.
Setting personal goals can motivate pilots to push their limits.
The importance of trust and teamwork in paragliding clubs.
Adapting to family life while pursuing flying passions is crucial.

Sound Bites

“Ignorance is bliss.”
“I followed them, you know.”
“I’m looking forward to it.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup
00:36 Exploring the Conversation Themes
00:41 Introduction to Koen and His Achievements
03:33 Epic Flight in Mexico: A New Record
06:38 Navigating Challenges and Decisions in Flight
09:42 The Thrill of Downwind Flying vs. Triangles
12:43 The Journey of a Paraglider: From First Flight to Passion
15:40 Adventures in Fiji: A Wild Introduction to Paragliding
18:26 Surviving the Jungle: A Night in the Wild
21:39 Finding a Lifelong Passion in Paragliding
22:51 Early Days of Paragliding
25:23 Adventures in Latin America
28:12 Challenges and Relationships
31:41 Learning from Mistakes
34:30 The Importance of Instruction
37:23 Life in the Carolinas
39:11 Towing and Legal Troubles
51:54 Adventures in Paragliding: A Wild Ride
54:03 Pushing Limits: The Quest for Long-Distance Flights
57:08 Challenges of Brazilian Flying: Tales from the Sky
01:00:57 Community Building: The Carolina Tow Club
01:07:12 Future Aspirations: Goals Beyond 50