Byram man breaks world record

BYRAM — Miles McDonald broke the world record for most one-handed claps in April 2013 by getting to 341 consecutive claps.

McDonald graduated from Lenape Valley High School with honors in June 2013. He participated in cross country as well as track all four years. In addition, he plays the guitar and has been taking music lessons since the third grade.

McDonald set out to break the one-handed clap record after seeing a two-handed clap on the television series, “Nitro Circus.” He was curious to see what the one-handed clap was, so he looked it up and wanted to give it a try. When McDonald saw that the world record for the one-handed clap was 310 claps, he was determined to beat it.

“A one-handed clap is when you lock your wrists at a 90-degree angle and smack your hand down,” McDonald said.

It takes time and a series of steps to get into the “Guinness Book of World Records.” He first applied to break the record back in January. In April, he received the go-ahead along with guidelines. Finally, six months later it was complete.

In order for his record to count, McDonald was required to post a video on youtube.com.

Two of McDonald’s friends were with him when he broke the world record. McDonald said, “It seems like a silly accomplishment, but it feels really cool to have beaten a world record.”

He added, “When you do something quick and repetitive like this, it becomes muscle memory. However, towards the end, it got very tiring.”

Along with being a part of the “Guinness Book of World Records,” McDonald received a certificate that acknowledges his accomplishment.

To see the online post of McDonald’s record, visit: www.guinnessworldrecords.com.

McDonald is currently studying at Syracuse University with a major in electrical engineering and a minor in music.