The Red Bull X-Alps is back on! Applications for the world’s toughest adventure race open on July 15. Aspiring athletes have until September 15, 2012 to register on www.redbullxalps.com.

The race committee will select 30 athletes from around the world based on their flying ability, mountaineering experience and mental strength needed to complete the 2013 edition of the epic race.

“We’re pleased to announce that entries are open for 2013,” says race mastermind Hannes Arch. “There’s a lot of talent out there and only the best will be selected. To be successful, you don’t just need to be a gifted flyer but also be an accomplished all-round mountain athlete.”

The Red Bull X-Alps 2013 will be the sixth edition of the spectacular event. Athletes must journey non-stop almost 900km across the Alps, from Salzburg to Monaco by foot or paraglider.

The format for the ten-year anniversary edition will stay the same and fans will be able to follow all the action in real time with the fully interactive Live Tracking map. However, there will be a few rule changes. The mandatory rest period will be prolonged to six-and-a-half hours from 22.30 to 05:00 while prototype flying equipment will be forbidden. For the 2013 Red Bull X-Alps, only CE certified gear can be used. Due to the increase in communication demands, athletes will also have the option to have a second supporter.

The 2011 edition of the race was won by Christian Maurer (SUI) for the second time after blitzing the field with an incredible display of paragliding skill. He finished in 11 days, 4 hours and 22 minutes, one of only two athletes to complete the race. On average over a third are forced to pull out, making it one of the toughest adventure races in the world.

Applications can be made via the official website, www.redbullxalps.com from July 15, 2012.

Check out the Red Bull X-Alps on facebook.com/redbullxalps and twitter.com/redbullxalps