In Illinois, United States, a little pig not only knows how to skateboard but also set a new Guinness World Record by skateboarding a distance of 10 meters in approximately 11 seconds with its fastest speed.
According to the Guinness World Records website on October 23rd, this pig named Norbert, a male pig, comes from a pig farm in Buffalo Grove. With the help of its owner Vincent Baran, Norbert learned the skills of skateboarding.
At the age of 5, Norbert recently set a world record for the fastest speed of a pig skateboarding 10 meters in 11.32 seconds. This achievement earned him the nickname “Tony Pork” in honor of California skateboarder Tony Hawk.
Baran mentioned that Norbert looks like a natural at skateboarding. “People joke that ‘pigs are flying,’ and now we can confirm, they can definitely fly on a skateboard!”
Baran explained that Norbert’s skateboarding journey began a few years ago when he found his childhood skateboard and decided to let Norbert give it a try. He took Norbert outside, placed the skateboard down, and then used unsalted peanuts as treats to reward him.
“After about 15 minutes, I let him stand on the skateboard. After a few more practices, he could skate on the streets by himself,” Baran said.
Norbert has been skateboarding for some time, but to officially challenge the world record, Baran’s family had to wait out the harsh winters in the Chicago suburbs.
When spring arrived and the snow melted, they could finally take this little pig back to the streets to practice skateboarding.
Baran mentioned that they ensured the skateboard’s frame was secure, prepared unsalted peanuts and cheese sticks as treats for Norbert, and measured his skate route so they knew how far he needed to skate.
Norbert is easily motivated by food, so they trained him to step onto the skateboard and dangled food in front of his nose to lure him forward.
After several practice sessions, Norbert reached his peak condition, and his skateboarding was flawless.
During the official challenge, Norbert started at one end of the street, while Baran stood at the other end holding some food. After 11.32 seconds, Norbert crossed the finish line, achieving a remarkable feat. For this 175-pound (79 kg) mini pig, it was an impressive moment.
Baran is very proud of the pig’s accomplishment. He said, “His unique ability being recognized is an honor for him.”
He also mentioned they provided him with lavish rewards, including bananas wrapped in peanut butter, peanuts, apples, and other treats fit for a king.
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