
RedBull Dolomitenmann
2008-19
Intense, high-altitude relay race in Austria’s Dolomites
Michal has left a profound mark on the Red Bull Dolomitenmann, one of the world’s toughest relay races. This prestigious race in Austria’s Dolomite Alps, featuring a mix of extreme mountain running, paragliding, kayaking, and mountain biking, has seen Krysta return year after year to test his endurance and skill. His remarkable performances, both individually and as a key team member, have earned him recognition in both amateur and professional categories. Here’s a structured look at his journey through the Dolomitenmann competition and his major achievements.
Introduction to Dolomitenmann
Dolomitenmann is renowned for its grueling format. Each team consists of four athletes who tackle four extreme disciplines:
Mountain Running – Ascending 1950 meters over 11 km.
Paragliding – Featuring two takeoffs, one turnpoint, and a 1 km run with the paraglider.
Kayaking – Including a 6-meter jump, a 5 km descent, 18 gates, and an Eskimo roll.
Mountain Biking – A punishing 17 km uphill with 1700 meters of elevation, followed by a 9 km descent with a 26% slope.
Key Years and Results for Michal Krysta
2010 - First Major Impact
In one of his early participations, Krysta stood out for his solid performance in the paragliding section, showcasing skill and determination despite the challenging conditions. His team, Eurofoam, finished in the top 20 among amateurs, setting the foundation for future achievements.
2012 - Amateur Victory with Eurofoam Deflammo
Krysta, now an essential member of the Eurofoam Deflammo team, played a pivotal role as they clinched the first-place title in the amateur category. This victory earned them an impressive 13th place overall, competing against 125 teams, including 40 professional teams.
2015 - Top 5 Amateur Finish
Krysta’s team finished in the top five among amateurs, securing a podium spot and elevating their international ranking. His precise gliding and skillful handling of high-altitude conditions contributed significantly to their placement.
2018 - Victory in the Amateur Category with ODLO Team
Krysta joined the ODLO Team, which would dominate the amateur category. His performance helped secure the team’s victory and 11th place overall, a remarkable feat as they outperformed several professional teams. The ODLO team completed the entire course in just over 4 hours and 37 minutes, demonstrating their world-class endurance and precision.
2020 - Steady Progress Amidst Challenging Conditions
Despite the challenging conditions and roster changes due to scheduling conflicts, Krysta’s steady presence and adaptability kept his team competitive. His team placed within the top 10 amateur teams, proving his consistency and value as a top-tier paraglider in the Dolomitenmann circuit.
Michal Krysta’s Strength in Paragliding
Michal Krysta’s skill in paragliding has made him a valuable asset in Dolomitenmann. Over the years, he has consistently delivered fast and accurate flights. Notably:
- 2012 - His paraglider launch time ranked among the top 25 in a field of 125 paraglider athletes.
- 2018 - He achieved a competitive paraglider split time of 38:28, positioning him as one of the fastest Czech athletes in the event.
Legacy and Ongoing Participation
Michal Krysta’s continued presence in Dolomitenmann represents a commitment to extreme sports at a global level. His influence and consistency have not only brought victories but also inspired new Czech athletes to take on this extraordinary challenge. Krysta’s involvement in Dolomitenmann remains a testament to his exceptional skill in paragliding and his dedication to pushing limits.