The Red Bull X-Alps 2007

The Red Bull X-Alps, which kicks off on July 23rd, 2007, is one of the most spectacular adventure races of all time. Thirty athletes from 22 different nations will compete day and night over an 850km route through the Alps with only a pair of hiking boots and a paraglider to help them.

Successfully staged in 2003 and 2005, the Red Bull X-Alps is even bigger in 2007. Athletes will attempt to navigate their way through the massive Alpine range in the shortest time possible, negotiating compulsory turning points at Austria's Dachstein Glacier, Italy's Marmolada peak, the fearsome Eiger in Switzerland, Europe's highest mountain Mont Blanc and the final stepping stone of Mont Gros before reaching Monaco.

They must carry their flying equipment at all times, which weighs a hefty 20kg, as they hike across 3000m high mountains or fly over turbulent glaciers and hostile peaks.

The race goes on day and night, sun or snow, until the first pilot lands in Monaco. Athletes are forbidden to use any kind of motorized transport but can select a supporter to help supply food, equipment and information.

Technology plays a huge part in the Red Bull X-Alps. The now famous Live Tracking feature on www.redbullxalps.com, pinpoints the exact location of every athlete undertaking the challenge.

Their movements are monitored via an interactive map on the official website www.redbullxalps.com. Vector measurement technology means that fans will be able to measure precise distances between athletes, turn points and the start and finish at any time.

Suunto will be providing the athletes with wristop computers to help them on their way. The wristops' heart-rate monitors, altitude, barometer and GPS functions will enable them to perform at their best under the race's harsh conditions.

Check out also www.redbullxalps.com for athletes' diary entries, pictures, latest news and more.

The Red Bull X-Alps 2007 is over and the results are in... Read more about the winners and the thrilling final moments of the race from the news section.

Check out also Suunto at Red Bull X-Alps- video, which highlights some of the most thrilling moments of the race:
Suunto at Red Bull X-Alps in high resolution
Suunto at Red Bull X-Alps in low resolution

Images of Red Bull Photofiles