Renner is a respected freestyle motocross veteran, whose credentials include a gold medal in Step-Up at the 2007 Summer X Games and until recently, the Step-Up world record (35 feet high). He will attempt the sky-high jumps onto a massive custom-built galvanized steel quarterpipe measuring 64 feet wide and 25 feet tall.

 

 

While this Red Bull Experiment may surprise some enthusiasts who’ve known the accomplished rider to be more focused on style, highlighted by huge whips, rather than risk-taking, Renner assures everyone that he’s ready to soar into freestyle fame. “My whole career has been shaping up to do something unique like this,” he said. “I feel like the sport needs it. I don’t want to just be a trick guy. This is where my heart is at.”

 

 

‘SCUSE ME WHILE I KISS THE SKY

 

 

Renner’s jump was the third chapter of the Red Bull Experiment, following the record-shattering performances of fellow motocross sensation Robbie Maddison and BMX star Kevin Robinson. Maddison jumped the length of a football field in front of thousands on New Year’s Eve, clearing 322 feet at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. On June 12, Robinson soared 27 feet above the lip of a huge quarterpipe (54 feet above the ground) in New York’s Central Park to set the BMX big air world record.

 

 

Simon Cudby