Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Season 21 Episode 6 First Run

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel season 21 episode 6, titled "First Run," explores the world of extreme sports and the thrill-seekers who participate in them.

The episode begins with a segment on wing-suit flying, a dangerous sport where athletes jump out of airplanes wearing suits equipped with wings and attempt to glide and maneuver their way through the air before deploying a parachute. Correspondent Soledad O'Brien interviews several experienced wing-suit flyers, who share their passion for the sport despite its inherent risks. O'Brien also speaks with experts who study the biomechanics of wing-suit flying, as well as those who develop safety protocols and equipment for the athletes.

Next, the show profiles a couple who have turned their love of rock climbing into a successful business. Jason and Gigi Goldman own and operate a climbing gym in Las Vegas that features walls modeled after famous rock formations around the world. Correspondent David Scott chats with the Goldmans about the challenges and rewards of running a business like this, and also gets a tutorial on basic climbing techniques.

The third segment focuses on big wave surfing, another extreme sport that requires a combination of skill, physical fitness, and courage. Correspondent Jon Frankel talks with some of the top surfers in the world, who travel to spots like Maui's Pe'ahi (also known as Jaws) and Nazaré in Portugal to ride waves that can reach heights of 80 feet or more. Frankel explores the science behind big wave surfing, including the role of weather patterns and ocean currents in creating these massive waves.

In the final segment, Real Sports shines a spotlight on a group of disabled athletes who have found joy and inspiration through adaptive sports. Correspondent Mary Carillo meets with members of the Hartford Hurricane Wheels, a wheelchair basketball team in Connecticut, as well as skiers who have overcome leg amputations to excel in paralympic competition. Carillo also speaks with researchers who are working to develop better prosthetic devices for athletes and others who have lost limbs.

Overall, "First Run" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of extreme sports and the people who participate in them, as well as the scientific and technological advancements that enable these athletes to push the boundaries of what is possible. Whether you're a fan of these sports or simply interested in learning more about them, this episode of Real Sports is sure to deliver plenty of thrills and insights.