Daredevil Canadian Mischo Erban has notched up the fastest speed
ever achieved on a skateboard in a standing position after hitting
an incredible 129.94 km/h (80.74 mph).
The 28-year-old's successful attempt took place last week on the
road descending to the St. Lawrence River port of
Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive in Quebec, the departure point for ferries
to L'Isle-aux-Coudres.
The road is noted for being dangerously steep, in points
descending at an 18% grade.
Speaking after speeding his way into the record books, Erban said:
"When I sped off I got into an aerodynamic shape and just focussed
on the yellow line in the middle of the road.
"As I got faster the road started to disappear. There were a few
bumps on the road but I just focussed on keeping myself
tight.
"It was great fun and I got a real rush from knowing I was
travelling at 80mph on a skateboard and watching the side of the
road flash past me in my peripheral vision.
"I came to the hill thinking I would be scared but at the end it
was just a game. I didn't really even feel challenged."
He added: "I hope to be afraid one day. I want to be able to do
160mph but there isn't a road which exists to do it on but I think
it would be possible because it is possible for downhill
skiers.
"I just need someone to build the road first."
Guinness World Records adjudicator Michael Emprick described the
new record as "an amazing demonstration of what the human body is
capable of with dedication and hard work.
"What I'll remember most about Mischo's attempt isn't just the
incredible speed he was able to achieve, it was the sound of his
skateboard wheels as it zoomed past."
