Swindon Man Survives Bungee Cord Failure, Embarks on Fitness Journey
Mike Land, now 55, miraculously survived a bungee cord failure during a 170-foot jump from a crane in Swindon in March 1993. The accident, which left him with only a hairline pelvic fracture, damaged ribs, and amnesia, has inspired him to take on numerous fitness challenges, raising tens of thousands of pounds for charities.
A Near-Fatal Leap and Miraculous Recovery
At age 22, Mike participated in a charity bungee jump, opting for the scariest descent where an instructor pushed him backwards from the crane. The cord snapped at full stretch, causing him to fall nearly 40 feet and land on his head and neck. He woke up in Princess Margaret Hospital, but doctors found no severe injuries, attributing his survival to staying relaxed during the fall.
After using crutches for months and experiencing memory loss, Mike gained weight and started working out in a friend's garage gym. This sparked a passion for fitness that led him to join a local run club and complete his first half marathon.
Decades of Athletic Achievements and Charity Work
Mike has since completed 40 half marathons, nine full marathons, cross-country bike races, and events like Ride London and Tough Mudder. In 2025, he attempted a Guinness World Record by pulling a 1.5-tonne van for 24 hours, raising over £17,000 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance, though he fell short of the record distance.
He often races in costume, such as Captain America for the Great North Run and Berlin Marathon, and works in a gym helping others achieve fitness goals. This year, he is participating in the British Heart Foundation's London to Brighton bike ride for the second time, a 54-mile event to support heart health research.
Inspiring Others and Future Plans
Grace Howarth of the British Heart Foundation praised Mike's efforts, noting that funds raised help millions with heart conditions. Despite his traumatic experience, Mike remains undeterred, planning to skydive in 2026, asking, "What's the worst that can happen?" His story highlights resilience and a commitment to giving back through physical challenges.
