In a world where people will do anything for an adrenaline rush, it was only a matter of time before someone looked at a tornado and thought, “Hey, why not make that a sport?” Welcome to the wacky, wind-whipped world of extreme tornado sports, where storm chasers aren’t just running from twisters—they’re diving headfirst into them with dirt bikes, surfboards, and jetpacks.

The Birth of a Stormy Sport

It all started with the 1996 movie “Twister,” which sparked a fascination with storm chasing. But merely chasing tornadoes quickly became passé. The thrill-seekers of today crave more. They want to ride the storm, perform stunts in the eye of the tempest, and maybe even outdo nature itself. And so, extreme tornado sports were born.

The first official Extreme Tornado Sports (ETS) competition took place in Oklahoma, the heartland of tornado alley, where the locals know a thing or two about dodging debris. The event drew daredevils from around the globe, each armed with their own unique contraptions designed to withstand the ferocious power of a tornado.

The Equipment: Ride or Die

In ETS, your equipment is your lifeline. Competitors have experimented with a variety of gear to best navigate the treacherous winds. Here are some of the most popular (and ridiculous) options:

1. Dirt Bikes: Riders perform jumps and tricks, trying to stay upright as the ground shakes and debris flies.

2. Surfboards: Yes, you read that right. Surfing tornadoes is a thing now. Competitors ride the wind currents, aiming to stay on their boards as long as possible.

3. Jetpacks: For those who think ground sports are too mainstream, jetpacks offer a way to soar through the chaos. Points are awarded for airtime and daring maneuvers.

4. Kiteboards: Combining elements of surfing and kiting, these brave souls use large, reinforced kites to glide through the storm.

5. Bubble Suits: Think Zorb balls but tornado-proof. Competitors roll through the tempest, hoping their inflatable suits hold up against the violent forces.

The Competitions: Twister Showdowns

ETS events are structured like any extreme sport, with heats, semifinals, and a grand finale. Competitors are scored based on several criteria, including:

• Tricks and Stunts: Points for creativity, difficulty, and execution.

• Duration: How long can they stay in the tornado’s vicinity without being ejected or grounded?

• Style: Extra points for flair, because if you’re going to risk your life, you might as well look good doing it.

The current reigning champion is Dusty “The Tornado Tamer” Johnson, a fearless rider who once performed a backflip off a barn roof during a category F4 storm. Dusty’s signature move, “The Cyclone Spin,” has yet to be successfully copied by any other competitor, and it’s not hard to see why.

The Risks: Torn Between Fun and Fatality

As you might imagine, extreme tornado sports are not for the faint of heart—or the faint of common sense. The risks are sky-high. Tornadoes are unpredictable, and even the most seasoned storm chasers can find themselves in life-threatening situations. Injuries are common, ranging from cuts and bruises to more serious incidents involving broken bones and concussions. There have even been a few fatalities, which has sparked debates about the ethics of such a dangerous pastime.

Critics argue that ETS is reckless and should be banned, while proponents claim it’s a natural evolution of extreme sports, pushing the boundaries of human courage and innovation. Dusty Johnson, ever the spokesperson for the sport, famously quipped, “You can’t put a leash on a twister, and you sure as heck can’t leash those who chase it.”

The Future: Tornado Olympics?

Despite the controversy, the popularity of ETS continues to grow. There are now leagues and clubs dedicated to the sport, and rumors are swirling about a possible Tornado Olympics. While the logistics of such an event are mind-boggling, the enthusiasm from the community suggests that anything is possible.

Innovations in safety gear and technology are making the sport more accessible (or at least less likely to result in immediate death). Companies are developing reinforced suits, tornado-proof vehicles, and even drones that can follow competitors and provide live footage of their exploits.

Tornado Tours: Join the Fun

For those not quite ready to jump into a twister with a dirt bike, there are less intense ways to experience the thrill of the storm. Tornado tours offer a safer, spectator-friendly way to witness the power of these natural phenomena up close. These tours, often led by experienced storm chasers, provide an educational and exhilarating adventure through tornado alley.

Participants get to watch the professionals at work, learn about the science of tornadoes, and maybe even witness an ETS event from a (relatively) safe distance. It’s the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of extreme tornado sports without getting swept off your feet—literally.