Chinese daredevil grandma takes to the sky with paraglider

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Paragliding is not for the faint-hearted, even for youngsters. But one extreme sports enthusiast, aged 69, from northeast China’s Jilin Province, would put many to shame with her enthusiasm.

Li Jiaxin is not only a skilled paraglider but also the oldest female paraglider in China, and as such has appeared on television many times.

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She has been practicing this sport since 2008, mastering how to operate the handles, calibrating her direction and knowing when is the most propitious time for take-off.

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Li said she loves outdoor sports, but as one of China’s 22.2 million seniors, she cannot be granted a certification or license, and is not allowed to take part in competitions or events due to her age and safety considerations.

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Still, this hasn’t stopped her. “I enjoy the thrill in this sport a lot, but I never take it too far. I go to hills with my paraglider but if I’m not sure about the safety, I’d rather take it down untouched than put myself to risk.” ‍

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