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The Cuban Erick Hernández set a world record this Saturday in the sport of Baseball Five.
The record-holder managed to make 4,626 headers in 35 minutes at the Copacabana Hotel in Havana, in what was an unprecedented attempt in the field, reported the official Cuban News Agency (ACN).
The rubber ball used in Baseball Five has a much smaller striking surface than that of a soccer ball, which made this new brand a greater challenge for El Dominador
"It is a completely different experience; it requires absolute focus because any slight deviation can make you lose control of the ball," said the record holder to ACN.
"He commanded respect from the very first day of training; it’s not the same to control a conventional ball as it is to manage one used in Baseball Five, which is smaller, faster, and less predictable in its bounce. Additionally, the position of the neck is more inclined, making it more exhausting," added Hernández, 59, who holds an extensive collection of over 30 world records, many of which are acknowledged by World Guinness Records.
The former footballer stated that he will soon seek to adapt this innovative practice to a seated position, a variation he considers "extremely demanding due to the strain on the lower back."
Before that, he will try again to achieve the highest number of touches on a soccer ball in one minute, with the aim of getting it certified by the Guinness Book.
"It is a tribute to the Baseball Five players of Cuba, who have brought us so much joy with their world titles. This sport has grown significantly in our country, and I wanted to acknowledge it with a record that matches their achievements," he said after completing his third record of the year.
In April, Hernández held a ball in the air for 10 hours, 13 minutes, three seconds, and 88 hundredths, using only his feet and head, without leaning on his thighs.
Hernández has set over 30 world records, in events that include control with thighs, knees, head, feet, as well as during sprinting and marathon races. His name has been in the Guinness World Records since 2005, when he touched the ball 319 times in one minute using only his head.
Frequently Asked Questions about Erick Hernández's World Record in Ball Control
What is the new world record set by Erick Hernández?
The Cuban Erick Hernández set a new world record by achieving 4,626 head touches on a Baseball Five ball in 35 minutes. This feat was accomplished at the Copacabana Hotel in Havana.
Why is the use of a Baseball Five ball significant in this record?
The significance lies in that the Baseball Five ball has a much smaller striking surface than that of a soccer ball, which means it is more challenging to control. It is smaller, faster, and less predictable in its bounce.
What other world records has Erick Hernández achieved?
Erick Hernández has recorded more than 30 world records, in events that include mastery with thighs, knees, head, feet, as well as during sprinting and marathon races. His name has been listed in the Guinness World Records since 2005.
What future plans does Erick Hernández have regarding ball control records?
Erick Hernández plans to adapt the ball control of Baseball Five to a sitting position, a variant he considers demanding due to the strain on the lower back. He will also attempt once again to break the record for touches on a soccer ball in one minute.
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