Steven LoBue had never dived from 27 metres before his first Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series competition in 2011 and now he's flourishing. Find out how the former Olympic trialist developed a head for heights.
Name: Steven LoBue
Age: 26
Nationality: American
How did you first get involved in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series competition?
I was fortunate enough to take part in the qualification competition in Australia and from there was able to qualify for the Series.
When did you start cliff diving?
I started cliff diving in January 2011 in Australia. I only had one dive from that height and I had to learn three new dives at the competition.
Describe yourself in three words...
Dedicated, passionate, eager
Did you compete in other diving competitions such as the Olympics and World Championships?
I have been diving for 19 years and I grew up in competition. I attended Purdue University and competed for four years. During my time at Purdue I competed at the 2004 Olympic trials and multiple national meets. I finished as a finalist at the Olympic trials and a Division 1 three-time all-American.
What qualities do you need to be a successful cliff diver?
I think that being a successful cliff diver means you have to be mentally tough. From my experience the best cliff divers have a good strong foundation in diving before they switch to high diving and that technical background allows for more difficult dives.
What is the toughest element of cliff diving?
The toughest thing to deal with in cliff diving is the mental aspect. It is really difficult to stand on the platform and force your body into the air. Once you are in the air your body knows what to do but getting there is the hardest part. Also, as with every sport, there are injuries and overcoming those emotions can be overwhelming making diving even more difficult from that height.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration is purely internal. I love diving and I love pushing my limits. Being creative and pushing the limits of the sport appeal to me so I am gaining the necessary experience and I am looking forward to doing things that no one has tried before.
Who is the sport's toughest competitor?
Cliff diving as a sport is so dynamic and there are constantly changes on the podium. If you look at the consistency you would most likely see Gary Hunt, Orlando Duque, and Artem Silchenko. These three competitors are amazing in all aspects of the sport. If this sport were in the Olympics, those three would be representing their respective countries.
What is your career highlight so far?
So far my career best would be in Mexico. I have only been competing for a few months and I am still trying to figure out which dives work best for me but at that competition things came together for me and even though my dives could have been better I finished in the finals and ended up in sixth place.
What does your training regime involve?
Currently I am working in a diving show on a cruise ship and it is nice to be able to dive everyday. Also, we have access to a gym where I lift weights three to four times a week and do core exercises everyday.
Do you have a signature move?
I think that every diver has their own unique style. For me, I think that having a good technical background will take me far in the sport. I believe that I have the ability to do some dives that no one is doing right now.
Cliff Diving Q&A: Get to Know Steven LoBue