In the much anticipated release of the 2009 Guinness Book of World Records the record of the year went to David Valhume of West Dover, Massachusetts. Each year Guinness gives out one special award for a World Record that is set by accident. The given title of this record is, "World Record set for negative distance in Pole Vault." Not only did Valhume receive the award but he created a new category for The Book at the same time. The category that was created is listed in The Book under "Records broken when the opposite results occur." The small print excludes any situations that have been planned so all entries would have to be accidental, unplanned situations.











Many have felt that this is a move by the publishers who have seen a steady decrease in interest for the Book of World Records and that this is a desperate attempt to gain attention to increase sales. Many also feel that this will start a trend where many will try and 'stage' record attempts and people may get hurt. This was quickly revealed as a growing issue when the following video was found:







Luckily no one was hurt.