Paragliding
German rookie showing his skills
Christian Schugg (GER4) was back in the lead, repeating his morning performance from Day 1 as "The Early Bird".
Christian Schugg (GER4) was back in the lead, repeating his morning performance from Day 1 as "The Early Bird". Schugg was sitting just 47km from Turnpoint 4, Merano 2000, with an expected arrival around 12:00. The German rookie was being hunted down by Aaron Durogati (ITA1), who trailed by only 10km, probably eager to reach his home territory in Merano first.
Yesterday's challenging weather created a strategic divide at Turnpoint 3, Toblinger Knoten. Schugg and Durogati chose a southern route, while defending champion Chrigel Maurer (SUI1) went north with another group. This route choice proved an advantage in the morning as the southerly leaders pressed their advantage.
Aaron Durogati (ITA1) hiking on Day 1 of Red Bull X-Alps 2025
© zooom / Lukas Pilz
Chasing pack fights back
Despite being cut off by the via ferrata closure yesterday, the pursuing athletes launched with renewed confidence this morning. Race reporter Gavin McClurg, reporting from the field, said: "The advantage we anticipated last night, hasn't turned into a huge one." Remarkably, two rookies – Lars Meerstetter (SUI4) and Nicola Heiniger (SUI3) – were holding positions in the top ten, showing the strength of this year's rookie field.
What to watch
Weather remains the key factor. Race expert Joanna Di Grigoli warned storms to the south may not hit athletes directly but could generate higher winds that will influence flying decisions and route choices between Toblinger Knoten and Merano 2000. While challenging conditions typically favor experienced veterans, the strong rookie performance suggests this race is far from decided.
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