Canadian high diver Molly Carlson has achieved a unique milestone by becoming the first woman to dive from a free-standing iceberg. The 28-year-old performed a backward dive from a height of around 15 metres into the freezing waters of the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Twillingate, Newfoundland, Canada, according to NBC Boston.
The project required months of preparation. Carlson trained in cold water, tested specialised wetsuits and learned ice-climbing techniques with Canadian climber Will Gadd, who helped guide the effort. The team also spent considerable time searching for a stable iceberg before attempting the dive. The dive took place in June after years of planning. One of the motivations behind the project was to showcase Canada’s natural beauty. However, reaching Newfoundland did not guarantee that the dive would take place. The team had to wait for suitable weather, manageable ocean swells, and a stable iceberg before deciding to proceed. She called the jump the dive of her dreams. The athlete has openly spoken about her experiences with anxiety and believes that bravery does not mean getting rid of fear altogether. Instead, it means learning to move forward despite being afraid.
Describing the experience to CBC Sports, she said she felt as though she had been in the air for around 10 minutes.
Speaking to CBC Sports , Carlson said the idea had been in development for around four years. Beyond setting a record, Carlson said the project carried a broader message about confronting fear.
