By The Nexus Gazette.
18th August, 2024.
In a jaw-dropping feat of bravery and skill, 34-year-old British daredevil Joshua Bregmen has set a new Guinness World Record by skiing off an 18,753-foot cliff on Mera Peak in the Himalayas. The record-breaking descent not only redefines extreme sports but also raises awareness for a crucial cause—combating human trafficking in Nepal.
Bregmen’s extraordinary achievement was the result of months of planning and preparation. He combined skiing with BASE jumping in an adventure known as ski-BASE jumping, a discipline that involves launching off a cliff with skis before deploying a parachute. On the day of the jump, Bregmen stood at the edge of a 5,716-meter-high (18,753 feet) cliff with the majestic Mount Everest as his backdrop. With nerves of steel, he launched himself into the abyss, setting the world record for the highest altitude ski-BASE jump ever attempted.
Remarkably, Bregmen’s record-setting jump was a self-funded endeavor. Without the backing of corporate sponsors, he relied on borrowed gear, second-hand skis, and even wore what he described as “cheap, fake” clothing. His determination was fueled by a philosophy that true adventure is driven by passion, persistence, and the support of a dedicated team.
But beyond the thrill of the jump, Bregmen’s mission had a deeper purpose. He and his team aimed to draw attention to the pervasive issue of human trafficking in Nepal. Each year, thousands of children are trafficked from this region, and Bregmen’s daring act was a powerful statement in support of those fighting against this grave injustice.
Bregmen’s journey to the record was fraught with challenges. Initially faced with a treacherous, rocky slope, he and his team scoured the area until they found “the perfect slope” for the jump. The team painstakingly cleared a runway by removing boulders and adding snow, all while battling the effects of extreme altitude, including oxygen deprivation and relentless headaches.
As Bregmen stood on the edge of the cliff, he envisioned the elegant S-turns he had dreamed of carving into the slope. The reality, however, was a modest, rock-filled runway. But with Everest looming behind him, he took a deep breath, steadied himself, and launched into the history books. The exhilaration of the descent was unmatched as he soared through the thin mountain air, finally deploying his parachute to glide safely to the ground.
Joshua Bregmen’s achievement is more than just a world record—it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of adventure and the power of a noble cause. His daring leap off the Himalayan heights serves as an inspiration to adventurers and activists alike. As he floated down from the heavens, Bregmen not only set a new Guinness World Record but also brought much-needed attention to the fight against human trafficking in Nepal.
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