Man in barrel hopes to slam another record

Vernon Kruger (51), who used to live in Dullstroom before he moved to Plettenberg Bay, has taken up this pole-sitting challenge for the second time around. He broke the Guiness World Record between March 17 and May 23 in 1997 for sitting 67 days and 14 minutes in a barrel on top of 21-metre high pole. He was then 29 years old. That time he broke the previous record by 13 days.

He has accepted a recent invitation by the Guiness Book of World Records to break his own record and aims to improve it, even if it is just by a few seconds.

The event is taking place at the Dulstroom Greens, a park in the middle of town next to the main road, the same place where he set up the previous record. Kruger is certain to attract maximum interest during his sojourn in the barrel atop the 23-metre pole. The pole’s height has been increased for this attempt with two metres.

Kruger – mentally and physically fit – was lowered into the barrel via helicopter at 12:00 on Thursday. His hope is to raise awareness for the town in attracting both national and international interest and to add to Dulstroom‘s rich history and cultural value to South Africa as a whole. He will also be raising money for two charities – Epilepsy SA (SANEL) and Belfast Children’s home. He has a ground crew that will assist him daily and food will be sent up to him with an old-school pulley system. Various restaurants have pledged to sponsor meals and drinks.

Steelburger/Lydenburg News caught up with him on Wednesday night at Dullstroom Inn where a welcoming party had been arranged for him.

1. What is your day job?

I used to be a commercial diver but lately I’ve been drilling boreholes for water in Plettenberg Bay where I stay.

2. What is your goal this time?

I honestly cannot estimate, so many factors influence the outcome of this event. The barrel used now is narrower and taller which means less space.

3. What gave you this idea in the first place?

I was on an island for a vacation when I climbed a palm tree to the very top. People were amused when I remained on top for a couple of hours. I then decided to make it a record, but found out the record for remaining in a tree without getting off was then 24 years. The Guinness Book of World Records’ officials suggested the barrel sit, and that is where it started.

4. What is the most difficult part of the challenge?

To sleep. This time I have blankets and cushions to take up. I am also not allowed any visitors.

5. How are you planing to keep yourself busy or entertained?

These days it is easy. There are going to be drones flying around. I have social media, my blog, Internet views, and a strict routine every day. I also make things with my hands and read.

6. Why specifically on a pole 23 metres high?

It is safer, quieter and people cannot make trouble for me at night.

7. What is your biggest concern?

Definitely lightning and keeping the record in SA.

8. How do you go to the bathroom?

This is the longest long drop in the world (he laughs). There is a hole in the barrel with a pipe leading down the wooden post into a septic tank.

“We have had a phenomenal response from the town and businesses of Dullstroom and surrounding areas… most have sponsored us in one way or another… from food, accommodation, water, cooldrinks, to toiletries and prizes to auction to raise money, as we are doing this for SANEL and Belfast Children’s Home. Even our venue owners of holiday homes and the hotels have sponsored fantastic weekend getaways. Dullstroom and the surrounding areas have truly stepped up to the plate.”