Robert Blum and Andy Egger are not a couple of unknowns. In 2015 they caused quite a stir with a vol-bivouac through the Atlas mountains. In November 2016 they crossed part of the Himalayas from Simikot to Pokhara in three weeks - Robert under an OMEGA XALPS, both with a LIGHTNESS 2. The pair of adventurers have recorded their experiences in an authentic film with flying sequences in front of an impressive 8000 metre backdrop. The film clearly shows the demands placed on the equipment.
Across the untamed ravines of Nepal
Above all, the two Allgauers had to cope with heights often above 6000 meters without oxygen, short (thermic) days with inversions, the cold as soon as the sun set, and dehydration. “The whole thing was difficult”, summed up Robert. The OMEGA XALPS was his reliable partner the whole way. “I wanted a flyable high performance wing that had the necessary reserve of speed”, justified his decision. He had made many flights with the OMEGA XALPS over the summer – including adverse conditions – to test and confirm that it was not only very good to handle, but, above all, very fast.
The sharper the conditions the more important the equipment
A hot topic such as this kind of vol-bivouacking is repeatedly an invitation to do it. Strong wind, remote places, tiny landing possibilities, thermal triggers, rubble and scree surfaces and much more place the greatest demands on pilot and wing. Airflow should not break away too fast or abruptly, and handling with big ears should also be good. Robert’s conclusion: “Here the OMEGA XALPS is a dream.”
About the dream: the vol-bivouac through the Himalayas is for Robert a dream come true. The happiness that goes with it can be shared by the film viewers as the two sportsmen circle up to almost 7000 metres on enormous ice and rock faces near the Dhaulagiri, and their vocal expressions of joy make the air ring. Robert is not saying anything yet about this next adventure. One thing is clear: he still has a few dreams more to fulfil.
Roberts Equipment
The Route
The Team
Robert Blum
Robert was one of the first German pilots. He won the German XC championship in 2013 and holdsthe German FAI triangle record at287km. He loves to travel to foreign parts with his paraglider in search of uncharted territory.
Andi Egger
Andi is mostly to be found with his hike & fly / vol-biv equipment. Paragliding has been his regular lifestyle for 20 years.