New Free-Solo Slackline World Record Set on West Coast

A new free-solo slackline record was set in Squamish on August 2nd. Spencer Seabrooke walked 64 metres un-tethered across a void 290 metres deep in the northern most gully of the Stawamus Chief.

By Drew Copeland

“I knew it was the right time; everything felt good,” said Spencer, who has put in numerous hours over several sessions, rigging and practicing this particular line.

“Before I ever bolted it, before I ever walked it, I knew it would be the one that I would free solo and break the world record,” added Spencer. “I battled with it for a long time and it didn’t come easily.” He said he was peculiarly afflicted by this line and has thus named it “The Itus.”

“I set a goal for myself and it happened. It’s an example for anybody else. It doesn’t have to be a highline free solo, but set goals for yourself and things can happen,” he said.

This record is ten meters longer than the previous world record, set in 2011 by Andy Lewis.

There has a been a slew of coverage in mainstream media on the Spencer’s send, which is continuing to drive slacklining from the fringe towards a more recognized activity.

“I went back to work on Tuesday, the day after [the record], and it was just kind of oh, that was fun. But then now that the video has come out, it’s absolutely blowing up. I’ve got people who want to pay for me to do projects. I’ve done interviews with CTV and CBC. It’s crazy,” said Spencer.