A to Z Challenge:Evel Knievel

Photos below from Evel Knievel's website.

Evel Knievel was already an established legend when I was growing up. My mom is probably happy I didn't follow in his footsteps. In his career he suffered more than 433 broken bones so perhaps there are some medical professionals wishing I had.

This quote from his website kind of grabbed me "Evel Knievel made the leap from rural county fairs to sold-out stadiums through a unique combination of bravado, determination, and promotional genius."

Why you may ask? Well I was at a rural county fair yesterday and their was a group of motorcycle jumpers who were one of the fair's sideshows. 

Times of course have changed since Evel Knievel was doing stunts. It has changed so much since he passed away in 2007. To me growing up in the 70s and 80s and I am sure to those who grew up slightly earlier he defined daredevil to us.(It is debatable if I have or will ever grow up.)

 I wonder if he would be a star today? Would d he even make it on television?  Would he just be a youtube hit maker? Is there a place left for daredevils?

Last year when I participated in the challenge I chose to post about excitement. You can revisit that post here. I stated excitement was a need and for people like Evel Knievel I am sure it was. He also provided a service to people by showing the impossible could happen if you try. The 433 broken bones showed he had his share of failures but in the end he is remembered as a hero by many.

A to Z Challenge: Excitement

Excitement is a thing a lot of us crave. Perhaps for some reason that excitement is lacking in our lives.

Don't believe we have a need for excitement. Look how many adventure movies and tv shows have been created. Look at amusement parks, carnival rides, and look at the lines!

Adventure sports still can almost be called a rage. Sometimes folks can read about the adventures they crave in a book.

Look at how people buy sports cars, 4X4's, sportsbikes, and ATVs. No they aren't going to race in the Indy 500, they aren't exploring a wild safari, or racing in an exotic endurance race. No these are the wheels of soccer moms and couch potatoes.

Excitement it is a need.