Chainsaw Chin Record Broken

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An Idaho man named David Rush has broken a Guinness World Record by balancing a running chainsaw on his chin for more than four minutes.

The attempt happened at his son’s final soccer practice of the season in May 2025. Guinness World Records has now confirmed that Rush officially holds the title. It was for the longest time balancing a running chainsaw on the chin.

Rush is already known for holding many Guinness World Records at the same time. However, even he said this challenge was terrifying. Balancing anything on your chin is tricky enough, but a running chainsaw is definitely not a normal playground activity. This is one record that should stay far away from copycats.

To make the attempt slightly safer, Rush used an electric chainsaw instead of a petrol-powered one. He said this helped avoid the jerky movements that can happen with some engines. Even so, the spinning blade was only inches from his face. Oil also dripped from the chainsaw, so Rush had to wear safety goggles.

Rush said he had to keep the centre of gravity just above his chin while staying calm. That means he had to balance the chainsaw carefully so it did not tip over. He has also said he never wants to try the record again. After more than four minutes with a chainsaw on his chin, that sounds like a very sensible decision.

How did this story make you feel?

SMART Prep | Quick Question 210717

The Kaikōura Marine Centre placed a notice near the tank. It explained that visitors should not tap the glass because the fish can become stressed. A sign above the tank said, 'Observe quietly and keep your hands by your sides.' One student whispered that the young seal was very active, but the keeper asked the group to remain still so the animals would feel safe. Everyone watched carefully and learnt how the creatures behaved in their habitat.

In the passage, what does the word "observe" mean?

  

Did You Know?

How long did David Rush balance a running chainsaw on his chin?
David Rush balanced a running chainsaw on his chin for over four minutes!

Vocabulary

Click on the words in the article. See if you can find them all.
  • balance To keep something steady and not fall over. He had to balance the chainsaw carefully.
  • chainsaw A tool with a sharp, spinning blade used for cutting wood. The man used a chainsaw to cut down the tree.
  • terrifying Something that makes you feel very scared. Balancing a running chainsaw is a terrifying challenge.
  • Thinking Question

    What other unusual records do you think people might try to break?