WHAT started as an effort to resolve arguments in pubs has turned into one of the best-selling books of all time.
According to the Guinness World Records (GWR) official site, a former managing director for Guinness Brewery (1890—1967), Sir Hugh Beaver, developed the brilliant idea for the iconic book after attending a shooting party in the 1950s.
It is said Sir Beaver and the hosts had argued about the fastest game bird in Europe, however, they were unable to get confirmation on the correct answer in any reference book.
While recalling the argument in 1954, the idea behind a Guinness promotion book was sparked.
Sir Beaver then hired twins Norris and Ross McWhirter, who were researchers from Fleet Street, to compile the book of facts and figures.
Fast forward over six decades and the GWR has become a global leader in documenting record-breaking feats.
To date, the GWR has sold over 150 million books worldwide. In 2021 alone, 1.8 million books were sold.
The books are sold in over 100 countries and in over 40 languages.
The GWR currently had 60 789 active records in its database. Last year, the GWR approved over 6 000 records.
No matter your interest(s), there is bound to be a topic that will satiate your curiosity.
From human feats (ie, the oldest living person to the tallest professional bodybuilders), amazing phenomenons in the natural world (ie, the biggest trap on a Venus fly trap to the longest dog ears), to creations (ie, the fastest edible vehicle to the largest drinking-straw sculpture) and unbelievable collections (ie, the largest collections of Star Wars and Hello Kitty memorabilia).
The GWR is celebrated every year in November. To commemorate this iconic and much-anticipated collection of mind-boggling records, Caxton Local Media is giving away one copy of the Guinness World Records 2023 (ISBN: 9781913484217) edition, courtesy of Pan Macmillan.
Fill in the entry form below to stand a chance to win. It could be a perfect Christmas present or a conversation-starter coffee table book for the festive season.
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*T&Cs – The winner will be selected by Caxton Local Media. Competition entries close on Friday, November 25. The winner will be notified via telephone. The winner will be required to collect their copy from the Highway Mail office at 115 Escom Road, New Germany, Pinetown.
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