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.
Most places of worship visited in one month
Asheville educator Vicki Garlock visited 185 places of worship in the Chicago area this past September. Garlock runs World Religions for Kids, which teaches children about faith traditions from across the globe. Learn all about the logistics of her journey in an interview with Mountain Xpress.
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 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.
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 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 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 who performed under the name the McGuire Twins.
Tallest potato plant
Nebo resident Cecilia Smith’s potato plant named Gertrude grew to an astounding 11-ft. and 3 in. during the summer of 2023.
