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Guinness World Records don’t always mean superhuman strength or running impossible distances. Sometimes, it’s about creativity, community, or simply being the first to try something unique. The Balearic Islands have certainly made their mark with a mix of sporting achievements, large-scale events, and quirky records that showcase the diverse spirit of the region.

 

Take, for example, the remarkable endurance feat of British-born cyclist Ben Miles, who in June 2020 at the height of the pandemic, pedalled non-stop for more than twelve days on a stationary bike set up right on Son Mar beach in Mallorca. This event, cleverly named ‘The Solution for Pollution,’ not only raised awareness about environmental issues but also ended on a romantic note with a proposal to his partner.

 

Speaking of stamina, one cannot overlook the epic basketball marathon held in 1993 at the Pla de Na Tesa courts. The game lasted an astonishing 26 hours, 12 minutes and 41 seconds. Though the official Guinness record was claimed after only 18 minutes, the sheer commitment left a lasting impression.

 

Continuing the theme of endurance, in 2007 Miquel Capó ran almost 24 hours on a treadmill at Sa Pobla Sports Centre, covering 247.5 kilometres to raise awareness and support those living with multiple sclerosis. The same year, a charity race at the Palau d’Esports de Son Moix brought together over 3,100 volunteers united under the banner ‘No to drugs,’ demonstrating the islanders’ community spirit.

 

Beyond physical feats, the Balearics have also broken records in education and the arts. In 2018, Palma Arena witnessed nearly 900 people setting a record for the largest CPR mass-training session, highlighting the islands’ dedication to public health and safety. And in a stunning display of creativity and scale, Biel Bennàssar Roig captured the world’s largest analog photograph in 1992 - a 400-square-metre aerial image of the Balearic Islands that famously left King Juan Carlos I speechless.

 

Adding to the list of unique accomplishments is Guillem Ignasi Bauzá’s 15-year collection of 263 cans of Pringles potato chips, making him the world’s second-largest collector in that category - a quirky but endearing record that proves sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impact.

 

These records, spanning endurance, charity, creativity and just plain fun, reflect the vibrant and varied spirit of the Balearic Islands, where big ideas meet remarkable people, securing the archipelago’s place in the pages of the Guinness World Records.

 

 

Images: wikicommons