VIDEO: New launch pad powers you to reach for the sky
See how Lowvelders get launched into the air by new installation at Klipkoppie.
WHITE RIVER – Have you ever wanted to fly? Thanks to a new installation at Klipkoppie Dam, this dream has become a reality.
Watch the video here:
It is called the Fat Boys Launch Pad – a unique invention that sends people flying through the air and into the dam. This happens as one or two people jump from a height of about six metres onto one side of the inflatable launch pad. The pressure inside the pad then launches a person on the other side up to 20 metres into the air.
Fat Boys will now be a permanent feature at Klipkoppie.
Saturday was the summer launch and all the proceeds of the day went toward Huis Bethlehem, an orphanage in Mbombela.
The sales of hot dogs and alcohol were also added to the donation.
According to Danie Stassen, dealer principal of Subaru Nelspruit, the final figures were not yet known. “All we can say is that more than R40 000 was collected, not including the hot dogs and alcohol sales.”
On top of the gracious donation, the children of Huis Bethlehem were treated to a helicopter ride over Mbombela and White River, and received a VIP landing at the event.
“We wanted them to feel special and to see the view from the air in more than one way,” Stassen says. “We would like to give a special thanks to the pilot, Mr Jacques Saayman.”
Subaru Nelspruit, along with Nelspruit ATV, Lowveld Bass Trail, Lowveld Angling and Boating Association, South African Sports Hall of Fame and Outdoor Warehouse were all responsible for organising the day.
“We wanted the focus of the day to be on adventure and family,” Stassen said. “We came up with the idea about a month ago. The event would have taken place on September 4 but it had to be postponed due to bad weather.”
Thankfully it was planned for a weekend filled with sunshine that few could resist the temptation of launching their boats and jetskis into the dam while others were being launched into the air.
“Amazingly more than 800 people went through the gate,” said Stassen. “We even had a shortage of parking. Some people had to park on the other side of the dam and walk all the way to the launch pad.”
For those who could not attend the day, do not despair. Fat Boys Klipkoppie will be open every Saturday and Sunday. It will also be open during the week on booking. No persons under the age of 14 will be allowed to jump. Enquiries: Visit the Facebook page at Fat Boys Klipkoppie or email nelspruit@jetovator.co.za.
