In what may seem a crazy feat to many, Linda Potgieter now holds the Guinness World Record for accomplishing 23 bungee jumps in one hour, something she describes as “a glimpse of God in a fearless, free fall”.
“I feel more free in those few seconds than at any other time,” the 50-year-old said. “What started as a petrifying experience became a very special spiritual time for me with my Creator. I feel as if it’s just me and Him in those precious few seconds.
“Then the rebound hits… you’re jerked back to reality and literally hanging around until the guy hooks you up.”
To beat the world record this go-getter from Val de Vie had to do more than 19 bungee jumps in one hour from the Face Adrenalin bungee jump site at Bloukrans Bridge in Tsitsikamma, near Plettenberg Bay.
For those wondering why someone would actually do that, Potgieter simply said she had to prove the former record holder wrong.
“Years ago when I was living in York in the UK I came across the record and I was so inspired I somehow found the record holder’s number online and contacted her,” she related. “She was a fellow South African, a great girl.
“When I told her I loved bungee jumping and maybe I may go for a record one day she told me I can’t. Now that’s a great motivator for me!
“I don’t allow the word ‘can’t’ into my vocabulary nor that of my kids.”
Present on the record breaking day on 15 August were two Guinness World Record adjudicators from the UK, who judged the technical, timing and final result of the event to establish whether or not the record was actually broken.
“I started training in 2021 and pushed a little too hard and suffered a debilitating back injury that set my goal right back. Then in May 2022 when I turned 50 I gave myself five months in which to do it.”
That was until the Schultz Creative Company called on behalf of a TV show, Stumbo Record Breakers, inviting her onto their new documentary series featuring South Africans attempting to break Guinness World Records.
“The preparation, training and actual jump time took six weeks. I was introduced to Corné Steenkamp, who educated me on basic body principles that would prepare me for the event in a very limited period. I have to mention Zach and JP at Val de Vie’s gym called The Yard, who also played a role in my readiness.”
Consequently, what started as a desperate attempt to break free from a fearful limiting mindset evolved into a way of life Potgieter came to love.
Having ventured to 44 countries as a confidence coach she found such challenges are primarily mental and emotional.
“The game is won or lost in both mind and heart,” she pointed out.
It does, however, entail plenty of skill to be mindful during a leap lasting mere seconds.
“I found my sky diving technique from 25 years ago really aided my bungee style, which made it smoother and more enjoyable.”
She explained the physical aspect comes in knowing how to leap while minimising dizziness, relaxing on the rebound to preserve energy and gently engaging one’s core.
But conquering fear at such dizzy heights, enough to do it over and over, is really a testament to Potgieter’s life struggles and successes.
“I had a traumatic childhood. By the time I was 17 and had to go to work, with no education, skills, prior job, car or any clue. I knew I had to do something radical to build my confidence to survive – practically, mentally and emotionally.
“So I decided adventure sports was a way to do that. I tried everything from solo sky diving to various aerial sports, such as gliding, tandem paragliding and hang gliding. Ultimately it was bungee jumping that I loved the most.”
Potgieter has had the privilege of bungee jumping all over the world, “but Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa remains my favourite.”
She admired and appreciated every person and organisation that helped her make history in the world of Guinness records.
“The full leadership team was very involved and incredibly supportive, and extremely helpful in identifying my readiness and ensuring my utmost safety. Without these guys I would not have achieved what I have, and the way in which I did it.”
What’s next for this free spirit?
“As a confidence coach I am building my international business to help raise other women up, especially those who want to get up, dress-up and live a bold, confident and beautiful life!
“I have a vision. But I also know there are no guarantees for success. All I know is that taking major risks is far more rewarding – and fun. So I will continue to jump off bridges to fuel my focus and passion for helping other women realise passion, power and purpose within are just waiting to burst forth and to take a leap of faith.”
