Since this BASE jump was very illegal, I’m sure some people might argue that it didn’t actually set the world record, but I still think it qualifies. If you are unfamiliar with BASE Jumping, I’ll quickly explain it. It is the most extreme and intriguing sport I have ever heard of. Most people think that BASE jumpers are insane, but I get an adrenaline rush just from hearing about their jumps.
BASE jumping is similar to sky diving, except for two major differences. First, you jump off of a platform (not out of an airplane). Secondly, you jump from a much lower altitude, meaning you only have a few seconds before you hit the ground. If something happens and your parachute doesn’t open, you are toast.
According to http://www.wisegeek.com, “BASE jumping is an extreme sport in which a person parachutes from a fixed object. BASE is an acronym for Buildings, Antennas, Spans, and Earth: referring to the objects that provide the jump platform.”
Some BASE jumping is illegal and some isn’t. Most people that BASE jump crave danger, so they inherently jump off buildings where it is illegal, just because they want the thrill. However, there are some legal BASE jumping groups that congregate around the world.
This video below, featuring the world record, tells the story of a BASE jump off of the tallest building in the world – The Burj Dubai. Of course, since this was illegal, it comes complete with footage of their sneaking around, running from the police, their escape, etc… It’s quite a heart pounding sport. I hope you get the same rush from watching this that I did!
Thank you to http://www.flickr.com/photos/prakashdaniel/2826871927 for the great photo above which was taken at the KL Tower in Malaysia.
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