China’s record breakers: Defying limits on Guinness World Records Day 2024
Guinness World Records Day 2024 marked the 20th anniversary of the global celebration, and China's daredevils did not disappoint.
Four extraordinary individuals took on the challenge, each rewriting the limits of possibility in their own unique way. From parkour to cycling and gymnastics to acrobatics, these stories are proof that passion and persistence can create magic - and set world records.
From parkour prodigy to record-breaking maverick
Parkour athlete and sports vlogger Zhang Yijie made history once again, claiming the Guinness World Records title for the farthest distance cat leap to cat grab (wall to wall) with a jaw-dropping 3.30 metres.
If you're wondering, a "cat leap" involves springing off one wall to another, clinging like a feline in 'flight'.
Zhang isn't new to this game; two years ago, he captured global attention with another record for the greatest vertical height of a lache swing landing on the feet at 40.6 cm.
This latest challenge wasn't just about strength - it required pinpoint precision and nerves of steel.
Training for three gruelling months, Zhang pushed his body to the limit, perfecting the explosive power and coordination this leap demands.
"It's not just about the record," he shared. "It's about showing people that failure is just a step toward success. Keep trying, and you'll surprise yourself."
Gymnastics glory reimagined
Former gymnastics champ Cheng Ran is no stranger to the world stage, but this time, his arena was stacked with paper cups.
With a height of 38 cm, Cheng smashed the record for the greatest vertical height of a standing swing over a paper cup tower, proving that gymnastics isn't just about medals - it's about redefining boundaries.
This feat wasn't as whimsical as it sounds. “Those paper cups are treacherously unstable,” Cheng admitted. “One wrong move, and you're picking up a mess of crumpled dreams.” But Cheng's years of discipline paid off, even as his old shoulder and back injuries tested his limits.
For him, this wasn't just a nostalgic comeback; it was a chance to honour his sport in a new way. "Creating a record feels like leaving a unique mark for Chinese gymnastics," he said, beaming with pride.
Spinning culture into the spotlight
In Harbin, acrobat Li Songman turned tradition into triumph with the largest open umbrella structure balanced on one foot, a masterpiece involving 14 delicately balanced Chinese paper umbrellas. Imagine standing on one foot while controlling a forest of umbrellas atop it, each teetering on the edge of chaos. That's Li's art.
Her journey was anything but graceful at first. "Every time the umbrellas toppled, it felt like my soul went down with them," she laughed. But persistence paid off, as she trained tirelessly to master the intricate balance and foot strength required.
More than a record, this challenge was her way of preserving and showcasing the beauty of deng san, the traditional Chinese art of umbrella spinning. "This is more than just acrobatics. It's a cultural treasure," she said, her eyes shining with pride.
Pedalling back to passion
For cyclist and ukulele teacher Cai Sheng, life had settled into the rhythm of middle age, until he decided to dust off an old love. Once known for his viral videos of reverse cycling stunts, Cai wasn't content to let his skills fade into memory.
On GWR Day 2024, he set out to conquer the fastest 10 cone slalom cycling backwards, completing the course in a blistering 8.99 seconds.
The path to glory wasn't smooth. Training for months, Cai faced everything from aching knees to typhoon-weather challenges on the big day.
"When I saw the rain, I thought, ‘Great, nature's giving me an obstacle course upgrade!’" he joked. But when the timer stopped, he had his answer: his love for cycling hadn't aged a day.
"This record isn't just for me; it's a message to anyone out there who's thinking they're too old to chase their dreams. You're not. Go ride your bike or whatever makes your heart race."
From parkour leaps to umbrella artistry, from towering gymnastics to reverse cycling wizardry, these four challengers remind us of one universal truth: records aren't just about numbers. They're about defying doubt, pushing boundaries, and inspiring others to see the extraordinary within themselves.