Australian high diver Rhiannan Iffland – a seven-time Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series champion – is known for her fearless approach to extreme sports.
She recently made headlines by taking the plunge and going on a waterslide that women are advised not to.
In an Instagram video, Iffland points at the sign showing a woman’s symbol with a red line through it and launches herself down the slide.
She captioned the post: “Here for a good time, not a long time! Another YOLO moment.”
The post has sparked significant debate on social media, with viewers questioning whether her decision was bold or reckless.
“The sign says ‘due to high risk of injury,’” one user pointed out. “Why would you still go down?”
Another said: “The amount of people that don’t understand why women aren’t supposed to go on this slide is scary.”
The slide, located at Austria’s popular Area 47 adventure park, is restricted due to the intense water pressure which poses unique risks for women.
Serious internal injuries and the risk of infection can occur when high-pressure water enters a woman’s body, according to studies published in the National Library of Medicine.
Iffland’s viral video left many users questioning her decision, especially given the health risks associated with the slide.
She told News.com.au: “It was never my intent to mock the safety regulations of this water slide. A person’s safety is paramount, and I am constantly weighing up any danger with my job. To suggest otherwise is wrong.”
Area 47 park representatives have also responded to the video, providing additional context for the restriction.
According to a spokesperson, per LADBible, the slide was originally open to both men and women, but over time, an increase in reported injuries led the park to re-evaluate the ride’s safety for female guests.
The representative stated: “Our highest priority is ensuring the safety and happiness of all our guests, regardless of gender.”
