Sport · India Bureau
South African athlete completes record-breaking 600 monkey bar crossing
In a world-first feat of endurance and strength, South African athlete Thomas van Tonder successfully traversed 600 suspended monkey bars 216 metres above ground beneath South Africa's Bloukrans Bridge. The extraordinary challenge, completed in 47 minutes and 37 seconds, represents a remarkable achievement in extreme obstacle racing.
LSN India ·
Thomas van Tonder achieved the unprecedented crossing on October 26, navigating a gruelling 280-metre course consisting entirely of monkey bars suspended high above the ground beneath the iconic Bloukrans Bridge. The stunt demanded extraordinary grip strength, physical endurance, and mental resilience from the South African athlete.
Van Tonder's successful completion of the challenge culminates two years of intensive preparation. The extreme nature of the obstacle course required him to maintain concentration and physical control while suspended at a significant height, with each grip transition presenting both a physical and psychological test.
The 47-minute-plus performance showcases the upper limits of human capability in extreme obstacle racing. Van Tonder's achievement adds a significant milestone to the growing discipline of adventure sports that push athletes to perform challenging feats in unconventional settings.
The Bloukrans Bridge, one of the world's highest single-span arch bridges, has become known for hosting daring stunts and adventure activities. Van Tonder's monkey bar crossing now ranks among the most demanding physical challenges completed at the iconic South African landmark.