TYLER, Texas — A 45-year-old man has secured a spot in the Guinness World Records after folding the most paper airplanes in one hour, turning a childhood pastime into a record-breaking achievement.
Richard DeFreece folded 250 paper airplanes in 60 minutes on Saturday, surpassing the previous record of 200.
DeFreece said his fascination with paper airplanes began at Scholastic Book Fairs, where he would head straight for the Guinness World Records books and once purchased a guide featuring various airplane designs.
“It’s just always something I’ve sort of messed with,” he recalled, noting that whenever he was bored, he would fold bulletins or spare paper into airplanes.
About two years ago, DeFreece decided to pursue a record and searched for one he believed he could realistically break. After contacting Guinness, he learned the existing mark for paper airplanes was within reach.
He spent roughly a year preparing and meeting official requirements, including securing approval for an airplane design. Although two models were accepted, he chose the “dart,” confident it could meet the rule that each plane must fly at least 10 feet.
A friend and local attorney served as an official witness and tested the planes’ flight during the attempt, which drew about 30 spectators in Tyler.
DeFreece said his arm was sore afterward, but his daughters were not surprised by the accomplishment, describing him as someone who enjoys setting unusual goals and achieving them. He previously completed a 50-mile ultramarathon and is preparing for a 100-mile race in the coming weeks.
His next target may already be in sight — DeFreece is reportedly considering applying to appear on the reality show “Big Brother.”
