Daredevil Climber Leaps 19 Meters, Completes Double Backflip

Twenty-year-old cliff diver Ilay Zalof performed a daring 19-meter (62-foot) jump from the Devora Waterfall in the Golan Heights, executing a complex double backflip before landing in the water below. Zalof described the intense preparation involved, including meticulously checking the pool's depth for submerged rocks and measuring the jump's height using a tape measure and a stone.

Before his leap, Zalof admitted to feeling intense fear, telling a camera, "I'm scared to death. If I get out of this alive, give me a follow." He explained that the preparation is crucial for mentally preparing for the jump, emphasizing that once he jumps, there's no turning back.

Zalof, who is considered one of the first to bring high-level cliff diving to Israel, faces frequent criticism for his dangerous hobby. He regularly receives comments questioning his actions, calling him crazy, and warning of potential paralysis. Zalof believes people struggle to accept new things, especially those involving perceived danger.

He also performed an 18-meter jump at the White Waterfall in the El Al stream, a location with personal significance as it is near the home of his admired commander, Major Shahar Gamla, who was killed in Lebanon. Zalof felt this jump was in Gamla's memory, adding an emotional layer to the already risky endeavor. He noted that while combat involves uncontrollable danger, cliff diving offers him a sense of control and freedom.

Zalof highlighted the difference between the dangers of combat and cliff diving, stating that in combat, the danger is uncontrollable, whereas in cliff diving, he chooses the location, understands the limits, and controls his fear. This sense of control, he explained, provides him with a feeling of freedom and healing, especially after returning from combat tours. He stressed that his progression in the sport has been gradual and supported by extensive training.