Updated story
Ladies and gentlemen, he has done it! Clinton Shepherd has started a revolution — and he's seen several hundred more in the midst of breaking a Ferris wheel world record this weekend.
Just after 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Shepherd broke the current Guinness World Record -- in the category of “Longest Marathon on a Fairground/Theme Attraction" -- of 30 hours and 35 seconds spent riding the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. According to NBC News, Shepherd's accomplishment was met with a round of fireworks.
The 32-year-old South Sider and Navy Pier operations park manager started his quest at 2:30 p.m. Friday and plans to continue the ride toward his 48-hour goal. Per Guinness, Shepherd is entitled to a five-minute break every hour but is not allowed to sleep.
Coinciding with Shepherd's efforts, DNAinfo Chicago reports Navy Pier is keeping the Ferris wheel open to the public for the duration of Shepherd's ride. Rides outside normal hours will be free, but riders were encouraged to donate to the USO in honor of Armed Forces Day Saturday.
“Navy Pier is excited to host Clinton’s world record attempt,” Navy Pier, Inc CEO Marilynn Gardner previously told NBC Chicago. “We support his commitment to bringing the world record to the city of Chicago where the first Ferris wheel was built in 1893 and we are proud to partner with him to dedicate his ride to the men and women of the armed forces.”
To keep him occupied, Shepherd will welcome far-flung family members and supporters from the public (who can ride along for a $25 donation to the USO) to his Ferris wheel car. DNAinfo reports Shepherd is also riding in style, with a custom-designed cushioned seat, Xbox Live and a TV to help him ward off drowsiness.
Shepherd's success ranks among a number of other Chicago-based Guinness World Records that include one for The Most People Wearing Groucho Marx Glasses (set in '09 during a Movies in the Park screening of "Duck Soup") and The Most Unused Concert Tickets Bought By An Individual.
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