The Infamous Jump at Caesar's Palace
Evel Knievel's Daring Attempt
On December 31, 1967, the world watched in awe as the legendary stuntman Evel Knievel prepared for what was to be one of the most daring motorcycle jumps in history. Setting up at the famous Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, he sought to achieve the impossible by leaping over the hotel’s large fountain. However, what followed was a catastrophic attempt that would not only change his life but also the perception of stunt riding.
Building the Hype for the Event
The stunt was heavily promoted, and excitement surged as thousands gathered to witness Evel Knievel take on this monumentally risky challenge. With a crowd of estimated over 40,000 onlookers, Knievel rode his custom-built motorcycle, ready to soar over 141 feet of water. However, as he approached the ramp, the reality of the risk was palpable.
The Crash: A Game-Changing Failure
The Moment of Impact
As Knievel launched into the air, the unforgiving calculations of speed, distance, and angle came into play. Unfortunately, he fell short, crashing into the fountain itself. The sound of the impact echoed through the crowds. Evel’s body collided with the unforgiving concrete, resulting in severe injuries including a broken pelvis, femur, wrist, hip, and both ankles.
The Aftermath of the Stunt
Despite the horrific outcome, Evel Knievel’s spirit of resilience shone through. Instead of letting this setback define him, he embarked on a long recovery, eventually returning to perform more stunts and captivating the audience with his unstoppable determination. His failure that day, while tragic, only added to his legendary status as a daredevil.
Fun Fact
Evel Knievel's Recovery
After the crash, Knievel spent months in recovery, but it didn't stop him from attempting even more audacious jumps in subsequent years. His fame only grew with each attempt, showcasing the extraordinary allure and peril of becoming a stuntman.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Evel Knievel
For those interested in learning more about Evel Knievel, a great read is "Evel: The Life and Times of Evel Knievel" by Stuart Barker. This book extensively covers his life’s adventures and challenges, providing a deeper insight into the man behind the stunts.
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