Age of adventure — 73-year-old cancer survivor Denis Gallagher takes on the Highland Fling bungee challenge
A retired cancer survivor has become the oldest to plunge 155 feet into thin air at a Highland Perthshire bungee jumping attraction.
- Published in the Courier : 03.11.11
- Published online : 03.11.11 @ 01.06pm
Denis Gallagher, a 73-year-old former mechanic and bike champion, plummeted at 55mph from the permanent bungee pod over the River Garry near Killiecrankie.
Daring Denis, from Girvan, was given the all-clear last year after being diagnosed with bowel cancer six years ago. Cheered on by family and friends, he achieved a 30-year dream, raising £1,000 for Cancer Support Ayrshire as he went.
He said: ''I first saw a film of people bungee jumping in New Zealand about 30 years ago. I was at the cinema in Glasgow with my brother and it was on a Pathe newsreel. I remember thinking: 'If I ever get the chance, I am going to do that'.
"Obviously, it was a massive shock when I was told I had cancer but, when I got the all-clear last year, I decided to give it a go. I am definitely considering doing it again and I am trying to get a few of my friends this time.''
Since opening in May, Highland Fling Bungee has counted more than 3,800 jumpers from all across the world. But it confirmed Denis is the most senior so far.
A company spokesman said: ''We've had quite a few jumpers of a more mature vintage and it is really encouraging to see so many people still remaining active and challenging themselves to keep trying new things.''
Friday sees another first at Killiecrankie, with Europe's first outdoor night bungee event. Dozens are booked in to take a pitch-dark plunge.
Add a comment