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The World's Best Job?

--By Martha Pickerill

Stuart Claxton's mother wanted him to be a lawyer. But if she'd had her way, Claxton never would have found himself in a helicopter in Mexico, hovering above a crowd of 10,004 people playing chess. Claxton, 31, is a researcher for the Guinness World Records book. He had to make sure that there were really 10,004 people, because that set a record for the most people playing chess in one place at one time. "The players were sitting in a chessboard pattern," says the British-born Claxton. "Those in each square wore either white shirts or black shirts. That made it much easier to count."

Claxton is one of eight researchers who investigates records for the annual Guinness book, which has sold 94 million copies (in a total of 37 languages) since it was first published in 1955. He started his job three years ago after leaving the science department of the University of Guadalajara in Mexico.

Because of his background, Claxton specializes in records involving animals, plants and other aspects of the natural world. He also gets a chance to judge Guinness's more offbeat records. Last year, he witnessed the creation of 494 balloon sculptures in one hour; a 3,894-scoop ice cream pyramid; and a 4,016-pound lollipop. His least favorite part of the job: "I've had to, sadly--very sadly--inform some candidates that they haven't broken the record."

Have you always wanted to set a world record? Try your luck! The 2003 edition of the book and the www.guinnessworldrecords.com Website have all the rules and details. "Aspiring record breakers are so passionate and committed," says Claxton fondly. "It would be truly wonderful if everyone could break a record."

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