more than 50 feet in the air in order to complete four full rotations before coming down on a wooden lander. In all, during his quest to land the quad Mildon made over 50 jumps – both from his setup outside Taupo, New Zealand and at Pastranaland -- risking life and limb each time.
Mildon’s accomplishment adds to a momentous year for Nitro Circus. It follows current X-Fighters champion Josh Sheehan’s triple backflip on a motorcycle that shocked the action sports world in April.
“This is the pinnacle of my life. Like a story that you want growing up but you don’t know how it’s going to pan out. It’s unreal,” Mildon said. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my family, including my Nitro Circus mates. James is such an incredible athlete and a great friend. He pushed me to challenge myself and test my limits.”
Mildon was the first person to ever do a triple backflip on a BMX bike (2011). Foster is the only other rider who has landed a triple and is the only one currently performing the trick. Foster’s triple flips are now a highlight of Nitro Circus Live shows around the world.
“While we competed hard and neither one of us wanted to come in second, I am definitely happy for Jed. I know what he’s had to go through over the course of this,” Foster said. “I still plan on landing the quad, and I’m also looking forward to getting back out on the road this fall.”
“Jed showed why he is ‘The Warrior’ with this achievement. The risks involved were tremendous, with the difference between triumph and disaster measured in just a fraction of a second,” said Michael Porra, Nitro Circus CEO and creative director. “Both Jed and James put everything on the line here, and that drive to push forward and reach new heights is at the heart of everything we do at Nitro Circus.”
“Revolution Day: The Chase for the Biggest Trick in Action Sports History” chronicled the nine-month journey of Foster and Mildon as they raced to reach a milestone few thought attainable. Viewers got a no-holds-barred, behind-the-scenes look at the focus and determination necessary to overcome adversity, defy the odds and achieve greatness.
Video of the jaw-dropping jump and other footage can be viewed here.
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.