In a world first, Australian and former World Cup Series Downhill Champion, Nathan Rennie cleared 121.2 feet (36.9 metres) on his mountain bike after being towed in to a 12 metre long, 3 metre high, specially-designed ramp in the Painted Desert of South Australia. The event took place on November 1st, 2005. To check out the photos of the jump, click here.

Rennie broke legendary American BMX-rider Colin Winkleman’s 116-foot world jump record – extending the old mark to 121.2 feet.

However, attendants on hand from the Guinness Book Of World Records declared Rennie’s new mark "unofficial" because he crashed on landing after over-jumping his down ramp, despite coming down on his wheels. Incredibly, the 24-year-old, 95kg rider walked away from the crash, although his bike was severely damaged.

Rennie was whipped into the ramp by Australian motocross rider (and world 125cc motorbike jump longest distance record holder Robbie Maddison), reaching speeds of over 95km/h on a loose dirt track. Conditions also meant Rennie was forced to jump up and incline, into 20-knot headwinds.

Eight people have perished in the past 10 years trying to extend the record.

"Holding on at 90-plus km/h with one hand on dust is going to be a sketchy thing no matter what, but I’m really happy with how we went today," said Rennie. "I think the outcome of jumping 121 feet but crashing is good – because I will be back to try again. I think we can blast 150 feet plus, easily, with the information that I’ve gained from today, and also the confidence that I’ve gained as well."

The Painted Desert is 140km from Coober Pedy in the arid Australian outback. Away from the area’s spectacular rock formations, the desolate desert scenes of Mad Max (titled The Road Warrior in the US) were filmed nearby. 

To check out the photos of the jump, click here.