World Report: December 7, 2001 Vol.7 No.10
- This Issue:
- Table of Contents
- Cover Story
- Cover Story - Spanish Version
- Mini-Lesson
- Comprehension Quiz
- Teacher's Guide and Worksheets
Up, Up and Carried Away
Ian Ashpole admits he has a hair-raising hobby: "I love flying on toy balloons!" He recently attached himself to 600 helium balloons in England and soared to new heights! Although 80 balloons burst on the way, Ashpole floated up 11,000 feet before cutting the remaining balloons and parachuting to safety.
With this sky-high trick, Ashpole, who is also a hot-air balloon pilot, blew away his previous record. In 1996, he reached a height of 10,000 feet using 500 balloons. Why did he do such a risky stunt? "It’s every kid’s dream," says Ashpole, 46. "I’m just a big kid." And an even bigger daredevil!
Next: A Sad Farewell
