In a startling incident showcasing the unpredictability of adventure sports, a 55-year-old paraglider in Gansu province, China, found himself in dangerously high altitudes. Peng Yujiang intended simply to test his equipment during a training session when strong winds unexpectedly thrust him into the sky, ultimately reaching an astounding 8,600 meters (over 28,200 feet) in the Qilian mountain range.
According to state media reports, the entire ordeal was recorded on a camera attached to his gear, revealing harrowing visuals of his face and body coated in frost and ice. "I felt the lack of oxygen. My hands were frozen outside. I kept trying to talk on the radio," Peng recounted in a video shared with Sixth Tone, a state-owned English-language outlet in China.
Initially, he aimed to conduct "ground handling training" at a moderate altitude of approximately 3,000 meters (around 10,000 feet), which is crucial for safely managing launches. However, the winds dramatically increased in strength, lifting him uncontrollably above the clouds.
In light of this alarming incident, local sporting authorities reacted swiftly, imposing a six-month ban on Peng from engaging in paragliding activities. This incident not only raises awareness about the dangers associated with extreme sports but also sparks discussions regarding proper safety measures and equipment testing protocols to ensure the well-being of enthusiasts.
