Adding a new dimension to the sport of diving, cliff diving is defined as the acrobatic perfection of diving into water from a high cliff. Braving the rough rocks, divers take a plunge in the hard-hitting water beneath to experience a thrill to last for a lifetime
The sensational sport originated from the Hawaiian Island of Lana´i in 1770. Kahekili, the king, demanded that his men leap off high cliffs and enter the water feet first without a splash, to prove their courage and loyalty. Today, after centuries, the activity has expanded into a sport that is marked by immense courage, focus, thrill and risk.
This exciting sport requires a sound technical education and extensive training before one takes the first plunge. Apart from courage, self-confidence, extraordinary physical control and possessing the ability to make quick decisions is a must for this extreme sport. Unrelenting courage, uncompromising focus and the ability to make crucial decisions in a second are what make a successful cliff diver.
Cliff diving is one of the riskier kinds of diving; hence, extreme caution is a must. To the benefit of the divers, certain standards have been set to minimize the risk factor. Some of these include determining the height of the jump (23 – 28 meters for men, 18 – 23 meters for women), an ideal entering speed of 75 – 100 km/h, and a free fall time of 3 seconds.
Cliff diving is usually done in areas surrounded by calm waters. There are innumerable enticing natural sites all across the world that offers locations for this sport. Apart from a recreational activity, this extreme sport has also been taken up as a profession by brave hearts who continually conduct spine-chilling shows for the audience at various venues all over the globe.
