Xavier, a long time french paraglider pilot, competitor, photographer,pwc organiser, and all round star guy is missing in probably high remote mountains in the Andes. And, typical of someone who has spent the last 20 years as a flying vagabond, his rescue insurance is too small and fast running out. What would he do if it was one of his pwc competitors ? Everything in his considerable power to find the poor pilot and bring them back to safety…and only then throw the  pwc manual at them.  Make a donation to help find him at the PWC website. http://www.paraglidingworldcup.org/

Xavier has been found, unfortunately dead, high up on a 6000m mountain, camera as ever in hand.He always lived life full bore,but also with consideration,which I think is very rare. I first ‘met’ him high up in Chamonix before either of us flew paragliders, Xav hanging out a chopper door whilst I hung on tiny finger holds cursing the noise and downdrafts. Years later at a pwc launch, he came over laughing holding large photographs, saying he had proof of what I did in a previous life.It was always good seeing Xavier.

 He lived a brilliant life,  following his own path, and died doing what he loved best, high up in the wild mountains, camera in hand. I am personally made up that he could still be ‘irresponsibly adventurous’  in todays constantly connected world, willing to cut loose and embrace the adventure full on. I am sure he will smile at the out-pouring of love and concern he has generated. As he did in  life, he continues to bring  the paragliding community together in a big big way.