Davis Man Paraglides & Hikes Through Europe in Red Bull X-Alps Race

Thirty-one of the world’s best endurance athletes and paragliders are currently racing through the Alps. They’re traveling from Salzburg, Austria to Monaco using nothing but a paraglider and a pair of hiking boots.

The only American in the race is Honza Rejmanek, and he lives in Davis. As of today, he's in 7th place, but we'll keep you updated on his status on Facebook and Twitter. 

The 31 competitors in the Redbull X-Alps Race were specially selected for their skills, stamina and guts, according to the race’s website. Athletes can choose to fly or hike at any time during the race, but they must carry their paraglider, harness, rescue parachute, helmet, emergency signal rocket, reflector belt and tracking device at all times.

Rejmanek, who majored in Atmospheric Sciences at UC Davis, finished 3rd in the race in 2009. He learned to paraglide in the early 90s and has been hiking since he was a kid.

You can follow his progress live using GPS coordinates at this link.

So how does Rejmanek train for such an intense competition?

“Running 5-10 kilometers several times a week with my two-year-old son Martin on my shoulders,” he said in an interview on the race’s website. “Hiking and flying when I find the time.”

His son weighs almost the same amount as his equipment, which is convenient, and kind of cute. Plus, he'll be gone for several weeks, so it's probably enjoyable for the two of them to hang out together before he goes.  

The race started on July 17 in Salzburg, Austria and will continue for several weeks until 48 hours after the winner arrives at the finish in Monaco. Athletes can choose any route they’d like along the way, but they must pass all turnpoints, which are scattered between the two locations.

Check out a digital representation of the route in this video. (It’s really well done)

“The race goes on day or night, sun or snow, until the first pilot reaches goal,” the rules state. “Motorized transport is forbidden, but they can select a supporter to help supply food, equipment and information.”

Rejmanek’s supporter is Dave Hanning, also of America.

From start to finish, the race brushes up against Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy and Monaco. The race covers a lot of ground and will go for several weeks, so check back later to follow Rejmanek's status.