Back Piercing Couple Scoop World Record in Bizarre River Crossing Stunt

Success is more than skindeep for two daredevils who tried to claim one of the world’s most bizarre records.

Mariya Gafitsa, 23, and 24-year-old Pavlo Klets have scooped the title for the longest rope crossing using clamps pierced into their own backs.

Their uncomfortable challenge took place in the Ukranian capital of Kiev, where the pair attempted to cross the Dnipro River using the excruciating piercing.

The perilous 550 metre crossing – using Tyrolean traversing techniques pioneered on Swiss mountains – would be difficult at the best of times.

But rather than supporting their weight from a harness, the pair put their trust in clamps pierced into their own backs.

It meant they were forced to carry their entire whole body weights on their skin.

Both wore a supplementary harnesses as a back-up in the event that the piercings tore off, sending them plunging into the water.

However, both managed to complete the challenge, although images later showed their backs were damaged and bleeding following the zip wire challenge.