Maxime Pinot (FRA4) is working hard to climb out and gain altitude. He has to work small thermals to get onto the high cliffs behind the village of St Hilaire. Once established, he will then select the shortest line possible to fly south across the valley and connect with the mountains on the other side. He has to be patient at this stage – if he is impatient and pushes forwards too early, he could land in the valley, and face a long hike while it is still flyable. It’s a crux move!