In a breathtaking display of courage and skill, elite gymnast Lily Smith has taken her sport to dizzying new heights, performing a specialised balance beam routine on a rooftop 52 stories above the streets of Manhattan.
A High-Altitude Fusion of Sport and Beauty
The audacious stunt, which took place on 16th January 2026, was the centrepiece of an unprecedented collaboration between beauty giant Rimmel London and energy drink brand Red Bull. The event was staged to launch Rimmel's innovative new Thrill Seeker Mega Lift mascara.
Smith, a five-time All-American NCAA gymnastics star and a Red Bull athlete, choreographed the routine herself. It was performed on a beam positioned an extra 9.5 feet off the rooftop surface—effectively doubling its standard elevation and amplifying the peril of the location.
Defying Gravity with Precision and Artistry
Against the iconic New York City skyline, Smith executed a series of complex manoeuvres. Her most demanding element was a stunning front-toss-pike, a move requiring immense power and control. To maintain composure at such a remarkable height, she relied on advanced breathing and visualisation techniques honed through years of competition.
The routine creatively blended the discipline of competitive gymnastics with influences from her early training in rhythmic gymnastics and the graceful poise of classical ballet. "Performing this routine in such a unique and unusual setting, ahead of my college season, was a total thrill for me," Smith said. She added that the challenge reflected her core sporting ethos: pushing limits, embracing creativity, and expressing personal style.
Brands Unite for a Fearless Campaign
The partnership marks a bold step for both companies. Janine Fernandes of Rimmel London commented, "Partnering with Red Bull on this adrenaline-fuelled project is an incredible moment for Rimmel." She drew parallels between Smith's fearless ambition and the brand's 190-year history of empowering bold self-expression.
The new mascara being promoted claims to deliver up to six times more visible lash volume. For Smith, the experience provided more than just a promotional opportunity; it served as powerful mental preparation. "As I head into my 2026 competition season, I plan to carry this experience with me to stay calm, confident, and completely fearless, always," she stated.
This one-of-a-kind performance not only adds a spectacular entry to Lily Smith's growing list of athletic accomplishments but also sets a new benchmark for innovative, cross-industry marketing campaigns that celebrate extreme athleticism and daring creativity.
