Man in barrel still devoted to record
A week has passed since Vernon Kruger (51) made it safely into a wine barrel mounted on a 23-metre high pole last Thursday morning in this charming little town.
Kruger is attempting to break his own Guinness World Record for staying more than 67 days in the barrel – all for the sake of charity.
Last Wednesday evening a small intimate function was held for the media, sponsors and organisers of his journey. Kruger, who is doing this challenge for charity, had the opportunity to address the people while representatives of the charities had a chance to speak out about the financial challenges they are facing.
A light supper was enjoyed and a unique gin was up for tasting.
Also read: Man in barrel hopes to slam another record
On Thursday morning excitement filled the air and crowds started to gather at the Greens. Unfortunately not everything went that smoothly. At 10:00 the helicopter pilot from Johannesburg who was supposed to drop Kruger in the barrel, phoned organisers and had to cancel due to bad weather.
Everyone jumped back into action to find another helicopter. They did, but it came with a price. The team had to raise R10 000 from the community to get a helicopter to fly in from Mbombela. Within 15 minutes, the money was raised and the pilot was on his way.
Due to windy conditions Kruger had to be lowered into the barrel at 11:00 instead of 12:00 as planned.
As the helicopter came closer to the barrel, the crowd went silent, everyone looking on in awe and anticipation. He stepped out of the helicopter onto the railing, placed his one foot on the side of the barrel and jumped in.
Everyone applauded him while he was making jokes jumping up and down in the barrel, trying to swing it from side to side and showing thumbs up to the cameras.
For anyone who is afraid of heights, this is certainly not for you. Kruger said he cannot give an estimate of how long he will be up there, but he is determined to break his record and keep the record in South Africa, even if it is just by a few seconds.
Steelburger/Lydenburg News will keep you updated on a weekly basis on our website, www.steelburgernews.co.za. You can also visit his webpage, www.dullstroom.co.za/up-the-pole, for more information on Kruger and his previous record.
