Clavadistas De La Quebrada: The Thrilling Cliff Divers Of Acapulco

Clavadistas de la Quebrada, also known as the cliff divers of Acapulco, are a group of fearless divers who perform breathtaking stunts by jumping off a cliff into the Pacific Ocean below. This tradition has been ongoing for almost a century and has become a popular tourist attraction in Acapulco, Mexico. The clavadistas de la Quebrada are known for their bravery, skill, and precision in executing their jumps, making them a must-see spectacle for anyone visiting the area.

History of Clavadistas de la Quebrada

The history of the clavadistas de la Quebrada dates back to the 1930s when a group of young men began jumping off the cliffs as a way to impress tourists and earn some extra money. The first official cliff diving competition was held in 1934, and since then, the tradition has continued to grow in popularity. The cliffs of La Quebrada range from 25 to 136 feet, and the divers perform their jumps during the day and night.

Training and Preparation

Cliff diving is an extremely dangerous sport that requires rigorous training and preparation. The clavadistas de la Quebrada start by practicing their jumps in a swimming pool before transitioning to the cliffs. They also learn how to read the tides, currents, and wind patterns, which can impact their jumps. The divers must be in excellent physical condition, as cliff diving can be physically demanding and mentally challenging.

The Dive

When the clavadistas de la Quebrada perform their jumps, they must time their jumps to coincide with the incoming waves. The divers climb to the top of the cliff, say a quick prayer, and then dive off the edge. The divers must execute their jumps with precision, as any mistake can result in serious injury or death. The goal is to enter the water feet-first, and the divers must ensure that they are in the correct position to avoid hitting the rocks or the ocean floor.

Clavadistas de la Quebrada and Tourism

The clavadistas de la Quebrada have become an important part of Acapulco's tourism industry. Visitors from all over the world come to see the divers perform their stunts, and the divers have become local celebrities. The clavadistas de la Quebrada also provide employment opportunities for locals, as they work as guides and sell souvenirs to tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "clavadistas de la Quebrada" mean?

"Clavadistas de la Quebrada" translates to "cliff divers of La Quebrada."

How high are the cliffs at La Quebrada?

The cliffs at La Quebrada range from 25 to 136 feet.

Is cliff diving dangerous?

Yes, cliff diving is an extremely dangerous sport that requires rigorous training and preparation. The divers must execute their jumps with precision, as any mistake can result in serious injury or death.

How long have the clavadistas de la Quebrada been performing?

The clavadistas de la Quebrada have been performing for almost a century, with the first official cliff diving competition held in 1934.

Are the clavadistas de la Quebrada a popular tourist attraction?

Yes, the clavadistas de la Quebrada have become a popular tourist attraction in Acapulco, with visitors from all over the world coming to see the divers perform their stunts.

Conclusion of Clavadistas de la Quebrada

The clavadistas de la Quebrada are an iconic part of Acapulco's history and culture. Their bravery and skill in executing their jumps have made them a must-see spectacle for anyone visiting the area. While cliff diving is an extremely dangerous sport, the clavadistas de la Quebrada have shown that with rigorous training and preparation, it is possible to execute these stunts with precision and grace.