Frenchman Franky Zapata was able to set a new world record for the farthest hoverboard flight in the world, the Guinness Book of World Records confirmed on April 30.
Zapata made the historic record off Sausset-les-Pins in the southern part of France, where he surpassed the previous best of 275.9 meters (905 feet) made by Canadian Catalin Alexandru Duru.
Details Of The Flight
Zapata was able to travel via a futuristic hoverboard called Flyboard Air at a distance of 2,252 meters (7,388 feet). He rose 50 meters (164 feet) up in the air. The Flyboard version that he used was created by his own company, Zapata Racing.
Flyboard Air can fly about 10,000 feet high at a speed of 93 miles per hour.
Officially On Record
Guinness World Records representative Sofia Grenache was present during Zapata's attempt. She was the one who officiated the event and confirmed that the hoverboard used by the 37-year-old jetski champion was able to comply with the rules of Guinness. She also confirmed that Zapata, whose nickname is Franky, was indeed successful in attaining the historic record.
"This has really been a life's work," says Zapata.
In April, Zapata Racing released a Flyboard Air test video on YouTube, which was able to garner more than 3 million views. While many were thrilled, doubters and critics were ever present in the comments section.
Zapata Racing Innovations
Zapata Racing is known to produce a wide array of water-driven devices such as the original version of the Flyboard, which needs to be attached to a personal watercraft generator with a long hose when used.
The Flyboard Air now has an "Independent Propulsion Unit," which enables it to fly even without a hose. This technology also allows the aircraft to stay up in the air for up to 10 minutes.
Zapata is also a remarkable individual in his own light. He previously had the record of doing the most number of backflips while aboard a water jet pack under one minute. This feat was featured in the "Officially Amazing" television program of CBBC in France back in 2014.
Hoverboards have become increasingly popular, with many brands offering many attractive features. For people who wish to buy hoverboards, it is important to first know the best brands, prices and safety tips before seeking for that adventure.
