The Art of the ‘Parcours’: Borgmann’s Ridge Play Clinches Race 5 Victory
Saint-Auban, France — 28 August 2025
The fifth race of the 12th FAI Sailplane Grand Prix World Final unfolded as a masterclass in tactical decision-making, where split-second choices and bold maneuvers determined the difference between victory and obscurity. Set against the amazing landscape of the French Alps, the near 300 kilometer task challenged pilots to balance speed, altitude, and risk in a high-stakes battle for important points, as we approach the end of the competition. In 2 hours and 3 minutes, it was Erik Borgmann who emerged first on the finish line, his calculated gamble along the Parcours ridges rewriting the narrative of the race and reinforcing the unpredictable nature of Finals at Saint-Auban.
From the outset, the stage was set for a fast race defined by changing weather conditions. Pilots acknowledged the critical importance of reaching the Parcours early, understanding that the Grand Prix format rewards those who dare to break away from the pack at the right moment. The task demanded not only technical skill but also the foresight to exploit the terrain—particularly the ridge lift that would later prove decisive.
The race began with a clean, efficient start - without penalties! - but almost immediately, a tactical divide split the field. Fifteen pilots veered west, climbing the north side of Lure, in the Jabron Valley, in a coordinated push toward the first turnpoint at Colette. Meanwhile, a smaller group of five, including Adrien Henry and Alberto Sironi, took a riskier eastern route through the Durance Valley. The main gaggle, flying in tight formation, arrived at Colette first, establishing an early advantage. The eastern contingent, though delayed, remained determined to close the gap as the race progressed.
The run to the second turnpoint at La Motte du Caire saw Peter Millenaar assert his dominance. Displaying impeccable technique, Millenaar opted to press forward and attack, leaving a good thermal earlier than the others, flying a direct line towards Col de Jouere. Behind him, a chasing pack formed - led by Mario Kiessling, Maximilian Seis, and Christophe Abadie - climbing higher to gain a strategic edge. Their patience paid off as they overtook Millenaar after TP3 Pont des Aiguines, setting the stage for a dynamic shift in the race’s momentum.
The defining moment came as pilots left Coupe Longcrest. While most competitors maintained a direct course toward Ubac, Erik Borgmann and Steffen Göttler made a bold detour, hugging the Parcours ridge through Caduc and Tête de l’Estrop. The move was a high-risk, high-reward play—one that Borgmann later described as necessary to regain lost ground. "It climbs very well on the Parcours," he explained after the race. When you’re behind, doing something different is the only way to get in front again. His instincts proved correct. As the leading group struggled in the Seyne Valley, Borgmann and Göttler remained high, turning the fourth turnpoint at Morgon ahead of their rivals.
The final leg of the race was a fast and exciting glide towards the Finish Line! Borgmann, now alone in the lead, maintained his advantage with flawless execution, while behind him, a fierce battle for second place unfolded. Kévin Faur, Mario Kiessling, and Stefan Langer crossed the finish line in a photo-finish, with Faur edging out Kiessling and Langer by mere seconds. Christophe Abadie and Maximilian Seis followed closely, securing fifth and sixth places, respectively. Borgmann’s victory, achieved at an impressive average speed of 144 kilometers per hour, underscored the stress that pilots had to face throughout the race, to take the best decisions. Every mistake would cost you the race, and eventually, a chance to get the Gold Medal tomorrow.
Race 5 Results
Peter Millenaar remains at the top of the leaderboard, but has been joined by Christophe Abadie, both pilots scoring 25 points so far. Third are Erik Borgmann and Maximilien Seis both with 23 points. Behind them, Kévin Faur (20 points), Mario Kiessling (17 points) and Stefan Langer (15 points) can still hope to become World Champion. The winner of the Final Race will be awarded a bonus point (11 points total), which promises an exciting battle for the fans.
The pressure is enormous on the pilots, as the battle for the podium remains wide open for most of the field.
In a sport where conditions can change in an instant, adaptability and courage often prove as critical as skill. Borgmann’s victory has not only shaken up the standings but also served as a reminder that in the world of sailplane racing, fortune favors the bold. With the championship hanging in the balance, the stage is set for another chapter of high drama in the skies above Saint-Auban. The question now is not whether the next race will deliver excitement, but who will rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Tomorrow is the Final Day. Get ready. A new World Champion is about to be crowned.
