David Kirke, the man who performed the world’s first bungee jump, has passed away at the age of 78. In 1979, Kirke and his friends leaped off a bridge in Bristol, UK, inspired by a ritual in Vanuatu. Kirke wore a top hat and tails and held a bottle of champagne as he jumped off the Clifton Suspension Bridge. This daring act sparked a worldwide phenomenon of bungee jumping.
According to The Guardian, Kirke peacefully passed away in his bed. His family described him as a “free spirit” who would never have wanted to change his adventurous life. They added that he had a strong constitution, was a leader, and fearlessly ventured where others feared to tread. The family expressed their deep sadness at his loss.
Kirke was a key figure in the Dangerous Sports Club at Oxford University. Along with three friends, they jumped off the 245-feet bridge using elasticated cords after a hang-gliding trip. However, they were arrested by the police for disturbing the peace and fined £100 each.
The Guardian reports that due to this stunt, bungee jumping from the suspension bridge was banned. Nevertheless, the Dangerous Sports Club continued to spread the concept globally by performing jumps from structures like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Kirke later described the moment of jumping from the 150-year-old structure as “almost beatific.” He expressed that the true reward was bringing happiness and fun to people he would never meet through his invention.
Described as kind and generous, Kirke’s family shared that he loved his adventurous life and made friends in over 40 countries. He enjoyed a glass of wine and cherished the memories he created. His family emphasized that he would never have wanted to change the life he lived.
David Kirke’s legacy as the pioneer of bungee jumping will undoubtedly be remembered by thrill-seekers around the world.
