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Guinness World Record holders from the Asheville area

From the world’s heaviest twins to the largest gathering of Elvis impersonators, the 828 has its fair share of record holders.

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The world’s largest gathering of Elvis impersonators took place in Cherokee, NC, in 2014 with nearly 900 costumed kings.

Photo via Guinness World Records

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Being fortunate enough to live in Asheville means we’re all already winners. But did you know there are some actual Guinness World Record holders here in the mountains?

From the “World’s Heaviest Twins” to the “Largest Collection of Coca-Cola Memorabilia,” here are just a few of the most impressive titles claimed right here in the 828.

Farthest Distance to Roll a Coin

  • Ashevillian Alex Jarbo set this record on July 22, 2018, by rolling a coin 79 ft. and 4 in. For reference, that’s about the length of two LaZoom buses.

Largest Gathering of Elvis Impersonators

  • Back in July of 2014, 895 folks gathered at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort dressed in white jumpsuits, wigs, glasses, and belts. The crowd delivered a rousing cover of the King’s classic hit, “Can’t Help Falling In Love” before being presented with the official Guinness World Record.

Most People Hugging Soft Toys Simultaneously

  • Achieved by Smoky Mountain High School in nearby Sylva on Valentine’s Day 2020, this record-breaking event saw 835 people people hug stuffed animals at once as a way to boost morale and collect toy donations.

Largest Collection of Coca-Cola Memorabilia

  • Debbie Indicott of Lenoir (Editor Brook’s hometown) owns a whopping 2,028 items including vintage Coke storage crates, National Geographic adverts, and Santas.

The World’s Heaviest Male Twins

  • Due to pituitary gland damage, by adulthood Hendersonville natives Billy and Benny McCrary weighed 743 lbs. and 723 lbs., respectively. The twins went on to become wrestlers that performed under the name the McGuire Twins. See them in action.

Most Soccer Passes in One Minute by a Pair

  • Ashevillians Andrew Lawrence and Ben Chapal set this record in July 2019 with 115 passes in just 60 seconds.

Longest Kayak Stern Stall

  • Asheville resident Scott Darby set the record for the longest kayak stern stall in July 2022 at 9 minutes and 59 seconds.
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