A 64-year-old Cypriot professional dancer has set a new Guinness World Record by balancing 511 wine glasses on his head, surpassing his previous record of 319 glasses achieved earlier this year. Aristotelis Valaoritis completed this remarkable feat last month, as confirmed by the official record-keeping organisation this week.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Wine glasses: Record-Breaking Achievement
Valaoritis’s latest record involved a staggering weight of over 63 kilograms, with each wine glass weighing approximately 123 grams. The professional entertainer has been showcasing his glass-balancing skills since 1995, captivating audiences at restaurants and events across Cyprus.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Improving on His Previous Record
In 2023, Valaoritis initially set the Guinness World Record by balancing 319 glasses. “I like doing this,” he stated after his earlier success. “I see the faces of spectators full of tension and anxiety as if they are watching a movie.” It was this passion and desire to entertain that drove him to attempt an even greater challenge.
The Technique Behind the Balance
Preparing for the record attempt required meticulous planning and precise execution. Family members and friends played a crucial role in supporting Valaoritis by arranging the wine glasses into a stable block, which was separated by eight sheets of plywood to ensure stability. This structure was then placed on his head using a specially designed lifting device.
Executing the Record Attempt
Once the wooden platform was securely positioned, Valaoritis carefully straightened his back to distribute the full weight across his head. He then extended his arms in a bow before removing his hands from the tray, relying solely on his head to support the entire weight of the glasses.
During the record attempt, Valaoritis maintained his balance for a remarkable 15 seconds, swaying gently to prevent any spillage of the glasses. His ability to remain composed under pressure highlighted his skill and dedication to his craft.
A Personal Journey of Dedication
Valaoritis accepted the record challenge not just to achieve a world record but to demonstrate his enduring passion for dancing and glass-balancing. “I still have the ability and passion for what I do,” he declared. His commitment to the art form is evident in his rigorous training and preparation leading up to this accomplishment.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
For Valaoritis, this record is more than a personal achievement; it is also a celebration of Cypriot culture and tradition. “With dedication and training, I managed to achieve exactly what I had set as a goal… [And] above all, I am proud to present this tradition,” he remarked. His success serves to inspire others in his community and beyond.
The Future of Glass Dancing
As he continues to entertain and engage audiences with his unique skill, Valaoritis hopes to encourage a new generation of performers to explore the art of glass dancing. His record-breaking achievement is a testament to the potential that exists within this traditional performance art.
Valaoritis stands as a symbol of perseverance and passion, proving that age is no barrier to achieving one’s dreams. His remarkable accomplishment will undoubtedly inspire many to pursue their own passions with the same fervour and dedication.
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