With the backdrop of the picturesque landscapes of Kazakstan, Estonian Jaan Roose became the first person to cross the iconic “fangs” on a slackline, limestone pillars that make up the Bozzhyra tract, also known as the ‘Sugar Castles’ and were crafted by the ancient Tethys Ocean, millions of years ago.
Roose took up slacklining 12 years ago and is well known for being the first and only athlete to do a double backflip (legs) while, in 2019, he won the World Slackline Masters in Munich, Germany.
The three-time world champion, who has also worked as a stuntman in Hollywood movies like Assassin’s Creed and taken part in a concert tour with Madonna, is a world-record holder in many unusual locations.
After navigating a 28m line between Sarajevo skyscrapers last year, Roose headed next to Kazakhstan where he made a difficult 500m crossing at a height of 200 metres in 50°C with a strong wind.
The 30-year-old revealed: “Bozzhyra is a challenge and is one of the most difficult, but at the same time, beautiful projects I have ever undertaken.
When I saw photos of Bozzhyra I was impressed, but when I got here, I was blown away by the unearthly beauty of the place. The fact there used to be an ocean here really fuels the imagination.”
Many years ago, the Great Silk Road used to cross the Mangistau desert region and one of the ledges, which resembles a fortress, is even depicted on Kazakhstan’s 1,000 tenge banknote.
Roose added: “It’s just a fantastic place. I’m glad I visited it and saw this unique location with my own eyes and was also able to combine physical ability with the beauty of nature.”
One of the group’s main goals was to treat the unique nature of the area with care, making sure they observed all ecological requirements in the real historical location as the camera team spent five days in Mangistau Region at the site to film their piece and open this unique location.
Talgat Amanbayev, Board Chairman of NC Kazakh Tourism JSC, said: “Today, Mangistau Region is a priority tourist destination in Kazakhstan and one of the top five in terms of overseas visitors for the year.
Mangistau is capable of becoming a real film-tourism centre, and as such, we are always ready to support initiatives that give exposure to its phenomenal beauty. At the same time, we will make sure it is treated with the care and attention it deserves to help preserve it.”
Learn more about this incredible feat HERE.