On Thursday, August 13, 2009 in Las Vegas, NV, Ed made world record attempts in two categories, succeeding in gaining a share of the world record in one category. He was the only artist to make both attempts; all other artists focused on making attempts in a single category. Pending certification, Ed will share the title of world record holder with Melissa Contildes in the "Most buttercup flowers in 30 minutes using a hand pump" category.
In the first category, "Most spiral hats in 30 minutes using a hand pump", Ed finished second to the (now) current record holder, Stuart Gutter. Ed made 44 hats to Stuart's 49 hats in 30 minutes. The spiral hat consists of 2 balloons which had to be fully inflated and show a minimum of 3 twists in the spiral.
In the second category, "Most buttercup flowers in 30 minutes using a hand pump", Ed tied for the record with Melissa Contildes. Both managed to make 20 flowers in 30 minutes. The buttercup flower consists of 4 balloons which had to be fully inflated, and 3 of the 4 balloons are woven into a buttercup pattern.
The world record attempts were overseen by two judges, and each person attempting the world record had two monitors for the duration of their attempt; an official counter, and an official inspector who ensured that the sculptures met a minimum standard before it could be counted. The attempt was witnessed by a large crowd of spectators. The results have been submitted for certification by the judges.
"Using a hand pump was a disadvantage for me, as I usually mouth-inflate and haven't used a hand pump for at least 5 years", Ed commented. "I also slowed down towards the end of the second attempt having competed earlier in the first attempt."
Congratulations, Ed!
