| Russian extreme sportsman Date of Birth: 26.12.1964 Country: Russia |
Born in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia in 1964, Valery Rozov began his life as a professional mountaineer before transitioning to parachuting in 1993. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming a master of parachuting in 1999 and winning the world championship that same year. His exceptional skills earned him the title of X-Games champion in skysurfing in 1998.
In 2009, Rozov gained international recognition after jumping into the crater of a volcano in Kamchatka while wearing a special wingsuit. Three years later, he crossed the Tatar Strait from the mainland to Sakhalin Island by leaping from a height of 4,000 meters.
Rozov's most iconic feat occurred on May 5, 2013, when the 47-year-old performed a BASE jump from the north face of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. The jump from 7,220 meters was a world record and a testament to Rozov's unwavering determination.
Beyond Everest, Rozov had an extensive track record of daring jumps. He soared from peaks in Antarctica (2010), Mont Blanc (2011), and Shivlings (2012), the latter marking the 60th anniversary of the first ascent of Everest.
Rozov is credited with pioneering BASE climbing, a demanding hybrid of BASE jumping and mountaineering. His ultimate aspiration was to jump without a parachute, although he acknowledged the calculated risk behind his seemingly reckless exploits.
Valery Rozov's legacy as a fearless extreme sports athlete continues to inspire countless daredevils. His record-breaking jumps and unwavering spirit have established him as an icon in the world of adventure.