Local businesses are bringing in daredevil Michael “Mad Mike” Hughes to the Texas Panhandle.
On April 2, Hughes will attempt to break his own world record rocket jump by launching himself across the Palo Duro Canyon in his X-2 Steam Rocket. Hughes’ current world record for the longest jump in stunt history is 1,374 feet.
The jump will take place at the Palo Duro Zip Line Adventure Park, located just before the entrance of the state park.
“Mike needed a place that would allow him the space needed to break his own record,” owner Mel Smith said. “I don’t think there’s a better, more beautiful place than the Palo Duro Canyon.”
Hughes’ rocket will produce 4,000 pounds of thrust that will burn for four seconds. The rocket will reach a height of 650 feet and an air speed of 350 miles per hour and cover more than a quarter mile. The rocket will fall to the earth aided by a Kevlar ballistc chute, the descent will take approximately 21 seconds. The impact will be absorbed by a three foot collapsible nose cone.
“I’m going to break the record on Saturday,” Hughes said. “I’m really looking forward to meetng people, seeing Palo Duro Canyon and breaking my own record. It’s going to be excitng!”
The public will have two opportunies to meet Hughes while he’s in the Panhandle. Hughes will sign autographs from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 31 at Auto Sales and Finance, located at 4471 Canyon Drive.
The jump will take place around 3 p.m. on April 2.
(Information from MyHighPlains.com)
