Alastair Galpin

took to world record-breaking in 2004 after being inspired by a record-setting rally driver in Kenya. What began as a hobby soon escalated into an active publicity pursuit. Today, he promotes the work of social and environmental causes. For these purposes, the most fitting game plans are chosen; then world titles are attempted and frequently created.

Recent media

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breakers and their achievements

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Some things are amazing

Some things in this world are truly amazing. Even more incredible is how they become world records. When I read things others have done, I am inspired and often-times left exasperated in awe.

In a matter of minutes, my respect for such individuals and groups grows. Soon, I find myself admiring them, and soon thereafter they’re my heroes!

Just imagine having been there during one or more of these world record events below. It would be like watching a great talent show!

There is an endless list of others I would (almost!) swap my life for the opportunity to see. Where should I draw the line and stop placing esteem on these artistic people? I couldn’t tell you that.

Even if these world records are one day broken, my respect and sheer admiration for those involved will never die. Praise, idolise, revere – whatever you think of it as, that’s how I feel. They’re too memorable to forget. Ever.

That’s my opinion. What’s yours? Are you thinking, “Isn’t this world record-breaking becoming ridiculous?”

No, I believe certainly not. As civilization advances, things change. So why not make a statement - or to be more specific, make a record - of as much as possible.

I agree, the fastest 100 metre hurdles wearing swim fins doesn’t exactly define modern society, but neither does the highest jump cleared by a dog or the largest horn circumference on a steer. And yet, these achievements enjoy much popularity. My own accomplishments may not be revolutionary either. But they attract attention, and that’s what this is all about. Is it not?

Even peoples’ statements which haven’t become as world famous – such as stuffing the most animals in 24 hours or the longest hammer-staring – are impressive when one finds out about them. But, as amazing as these findings are, I’ve got to question what it is all for. I may not be about to adopt every award-carrying individual and other living creature as my hero; nevertheless I bet that knowing them would bring interesting experiences.

So here’s to the larger-than-life human beings inhabiting this planet with me. We only live a pitiful 70 years, give or take. Come on, let’s get together and make incredible stuff happen. And let’s do it before the 70-year-mark rolls round for us all.

I never said I wanted to be controversial; just extraordinary. It’s so simple.

Brave battles against the elements

David Smithers from the UK led a team of men in a hovercraft across a large chunk of west Africa. 

That’s right – a hovercraft. I saw a photo of the team cruising up a sand dune in the Sahara Desert, pumping plumes of sand through crowds of local peasants. And that was way back in 1970, so I wonder what that would be like in the 21^st century. This event impresses me endlessly. Wow.

Check out more at www.guinnessworldrecords.com

And learn more about hovercraft at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hovercraft

Darkest depths that man will go to

Jacques Piccard took the leap to explore the hidden depths of the Mariana Trench.

Also way back in the 20^th century, a man as brave as they come ventured into a place of supposed horror – the ocean floor. Today it is known that down there, a muddy layer smothers the bedrock in a totally dark world which is perpetually silent. But back then, stories abounded of monsters and other nasty creatures.

Who would be so brave as to plummet into the abyss and find out? Jacques Piccard, of course. And, so they say, he came back up smiling like a child. So, obviously he wasn’t eaten by an evil monster! Now, wouldn’t that have been a journey worth risking your life for? I think it would be.

Check out more about the Mariana Trench at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariana_Trench

Momentous moments of strength

Kevin Fast does a slow job when he pulls - gigantic CC177 aircraft, that is. 

Quite frankly, I couldn’t pull a Mini if I tried. And here is one man who, in the face of global media waiting for his story like information-starved hawks, walks up to an aircraft and pulls it, showing off superb world record talent. The respect this commands is unending. Even more so when you see that positive look and sparkle in his eye. He’s my kind of man, that Kevin.

Check out more at www.guinnessworldrecords.com

And learn more about aircraft at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aircraft