Highlights of the 2004 Edition
The 2004 edition of Guinness World Records featured many captivating records that not only entertained but also educated readers about the limits of human endurance and creativity. Below are some of the most notable records included in that year’s publication.
Sporting Records
Sports have always been a significant focus of Guinness World Records, and the 2004 edition was no exception. Some of the standout sporting achievements included:
- Fastest Marathon: The record for the fastest marathon was held by Paul Tergat of Kenya, who completed the race in 2 hours, 4 minutes, and 55 seconds during the 2003 Berlin Marathon.
- Longest Tennis Match: The record for the longest tennis match was set at the 2003 Australian Open, where the match between Fabrice Santoro and Arnaud Clément lasted 6 hours and 33 minutes.
- Most Goals Scored in a Calendar Year: The legendary soccer player Pelé set the record for the most goals scored in a calendar year, achieving an astonishing 1,283 goals over his career.
These records not only highlighted the incredible achievements of athletes but also provided inspiration for future generations of sports enthusiasts.
Human Achievements
The 2004 edition also showcased remarkable human achievements that pushed the boundaries of what was deemed possible. Some fascinating records included:
- Longest Fingernails: Lee Redmond from the USA held the record for the longest fingernails, measuring an incredible 8.65 meters (28 feet 4.5 inches) in total length.
- Most Tattoos in 24 Hours: Hollis Cantrell, an American tattoo artist, set the record for the most tattoos completed in 24 hours, achieving a staggering 801 tattoos.
- Most People Dressed as Smurfs: A group of 2,762 people dressed as Smurfs gathered in Lauchringen, Germany, creating a whimsical spectacle for the record books.
These human achievements highlighted the dedication and creativity of individuals pursuing their passions, regardless of how unconventional they may seem.
Innovative Records
Guinness World Records 2004 also introduced innovative records that reflected the changing times and interests of society. The following records captured the essence of innovation and creativity:
Technological Marvels
As technology continued to evolve, so did the records associated with it. The 2004 edition featured several groundbreaking achievements in the realm of technology:
- Fastest Computer: The title of the fastest supercomputer was held by the Earth Simulator, capable of performing over 40 trillion calculations per second.
- First Commercially Available 3D Printer: The introduction of the first commercially available 3D printer marked a significant milestone in technology, revolutionizing manufacturing and design processes.
- Largest Online Community: The record for the largest online community was held by the social networking site Friendster, which boasted over 3 million members at the time.
These technological records showcased the rapid advancements in computing and connectivity, illustrating how human ingenuity was shaping the future.
Cultural Phenomena
Cultural records also found a place in the 2004 edition, reflecting the diverse interests and trends of the time. Some notable cultural records included:
- Largest Pizza: The largest pizza ever made was measured at 1,590 square meters (17,000 square feet) and was created in Rome, Italy, showcasing the culinary creativity of its makers.
- Most Expensive Movie: The record for the most expensive movie ever made was held by "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," with a production budget exceeding $300 million.
- Highest-Grossing Film: "Titanic" continued to hold the record for the highest-grossing film of all time, earning over $2 billion worldwide.
These cultural records illustrated the evolving landscape of entertainment and cuisine, capturing the spirit of innovation and creativity.
Record-Breaking Events
The Guinness World Records 2004 edition also chronicled significant record-breaking events from around the world. These events served as platforms for individuals and groups to showcase their skills and compete for glory.
Notable Events
The following events were particularly noteworthy in the 2004 edition:
- The Great Wall of China Marathon: This annual marathon challenged runners to navigate the steep and rugged terrain of the Great Wall, with participants from around the world vying for the title.
- World's Largest Water Balloon Fight: A record-breaking water balloon fight took place in 2004, where thousands of participants gathered to engage in a playful battle, resulting in over 100,000 balloons being thrown.
- The World Beard and Moustache Championships: This unique event showcased the creativity of facial hair enthusiasts, with participants competing in various categories based on style, length, and design.
These record-breaking events not only entertained but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.
The Impact of Guinness World Records 2004
The Guinness World Records 2004 edition had a lasting impact on individuals and communities around the world. It inspired countless people to push their limits and strive for greatness, whether in sports, arts, or personal achievements. The book served as a reminder that human potential knows no bounds, encouraging readers to dream big and pursue their passions.
Encouragement for Future Generations
By showcasing diverse records and achievements, the 2004 edition of Guinness World Records motivated future generations to explore their interests and talents. Many young readers were inspired to attempt their own record-breaking feats, leading to a culture of innovation and creativity. Schools and organizations began to use the book as a resource to encourage students to think outside the box and pursue their dreams.
Legacy of Guinness World Records
The legacy of Guinness World Records continues to grow, with each new edition building on the excitement and fascination inspired by previous records. The 2004 edition remains a cherished part of this legacy, highlighting the extraordinary accomplishments of individuals and communities worldwide. It serves as a testament to the power of human determination, creativity, and the endless possibilities that come from striving for excellence.
In conclusion, the Guinness World Records 2004 edition encapsulated the spirit of exploration and achievement, showcasing remarkable feats in sports, human capabilities, technology, and culture. It inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams, reminding us all that the extraordinary is achievable with passion and perseverance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Guinness World Records 2004 edition?
The 2004 edition of the Guinness World Records marked the 50th anniversary of the publication, celebrating its long-standing history of documenting extraordinary achievements.
What were some of the most popular records featured in the 2004 edition?
Some popular records included the tallest man, the fastest animal, and the largest collection of rubber ducks, reflecting a variety of human and natural achievements.
How many pages did the Guinness World Records 2004 edition contain?
The 2004 edition contained 256 pages, filled with colorful photographs and detailed descriptions of various world records.
What was a notable record related to technology featured in the 2004 edition?
The record for the world's fastest computer was highlighted, showcasing technological advancements and innovations in computing.
Who was recognized as the tallest man in the world in the 2004 edition?
Robert Wadlow, who reached a height of 8 feet 11 inches, was recognized in the 2004 edition as the tallest man in recorded history.
Did the 2004 edition include any records related to sports?
Yes, the 2004 edition included various sports records, such as the fastest marathon time and the highest score in a single cricket match.
What unique world record was set for the most tattoos on a person in the 2004 edition?
The 2004 edition featured a record for the most tattoos on one person, which was set by Hollis Cantrell, who had over 400 tattoos.
How did the 2004 edition of Guinness World Records promote a sense of fun?
The 2004 edition included quirky and humorous records, such as the largest bubblegum bubble blown and the most people dressed as Smurfs, appealing to a wide audience.
What was a notable environmental record showcased in the 2004 edition?
The record for the largest tree planting event, where thousands of trees were planted in a single day, was highlighted to promote environmental awareness.
