Kathmandu, 22 December: Nepali parkour player Dinesh Sunar has managed to enter the Guinness Book of World Records for the 20th time. This time, Sunar has added a new record by performing a blindfolded backward somersault in 30 seconds in the ‘Most Blind Folded Backward Somersault in 30 Seconds’ category under the parkour and gymnastics sports category 14 times and throwing up backwards without using his hands. The standard for this category was at least 10 times.
The record was set by performing in front of more than 300 spectators from different countries at the Akron International Dance Festival organized by the ‘City of Akronward to Government’ in Akron, Ohio, USA. With this, Dinesh has succeeded in writing his name in the Guinness Book of World Records for the 20th time. The platinum sponsor for this record was Top Shop Kathmandu and New York-based social activist Lakesh Shrestha, owner of Shatisal IIC. Dances reflecting the cultural identities of Mexico, Germany, India, South Africa, Poland, Ireland, Bhutan, Congo, Italy, Nepal, Burma, Thailand and the United States were performed at the festival.
He says that his success is the result of 12 years of hard work and patience. He says, “I started trying for this record 12 years ago, I kept trying and today I succeeded.” He says that he feels proud that he has been able to inspire new generations to participate in parkour and raise the name of the country to the world through sports. He also said that the record he has set in the US will help strengthen the relationship between Nepal and the US, and informed that his goal is to produce world-class players and coaches by conducting parkour training programs in Nepal and the US. He said that he will continue to strengthen the cultural, diplomatic and sports relations between Nepal and the US through parkour in the future.
What is blindfolded backward somersault?
A blindfolded backward somersault is an acrobatic skill where a person performs a backward somersault (also known as a backflip or back tuck) while wearing a blindfold, removing the ability to see and rely on visual cues for balance and orientation.
This move requires:
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Exceptional Body Awareness: Since the athlete cannot see, they must rely entirely on their sense of proprioception (the body’s ability to sense its position and movement).
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Perfect Technique: The somersault must be executed with precise timing and control to ensure safety and a clean landing.
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Strong Confidence and Practice: Performing flips without visual input can be intimidating, and the athlete must practice extensively to trust their muscle memory.
Blindfolded acrobatics, including somersaults, are often used in performances to showcase extreme skill and daring or as challenges for advanced athletes. They can also be part of records or stunts in competitions and exhibitions.
