The weekly weird

Published April 25, 2026 Updated April 25, 2026 05:08am

Man passes driving theory after 139 tries

A man from Tarnów finally passed his theoretical driving test after nine years and 139 failed attempts, spending about €1,800 ($2,100) on exam fees.

Most drivers pass the computer-based test in one to three tries, but he persisted despite repeated failures. Officials said his progress improved after he switched from a demo prep programme to the full version, which covered all possible questions.

Now he must pass the practical driving test or he’ll have to retake the theory exam. Though unusual, his effort isn’t the Polish record; another driver in Piotrków Trybunalski took 17 years and 163 attempts to pass the theory test.

Thrill seekers zip 280m above the Chinese sinkhole

The Monkey Ear Sinkhole now features a high-altitude tube zipline, letting visitors hang 280 metres above the ground while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Kaiyang County, Guizhou Province, China.

Opened on February 6, 2026, the installation has gone viral online, with some comparing it to a real-life version of the mobile game Temple Run. Adventurers strap in, grip the handles and glide across the 300-metre-wide, 280-metre-deep sinkhole for a exhilarating experience.

A woman carves carrots with her teeth

A Chinese woman, Chen Qin, 25, from Enshi, has earned the title of “world’s only tooth carver” for sculpting intricate designs out of carrots using only her teeth.

She discovered the talent by accident while streaming during last year’s Spring Festival, shaping a carrot with her teeth and earning praise from viewers. Chen focuses on carrots because they are firm, easy to carve and gentle on her stomach.

Her portfolio includes more than 100 creations, with her edible versions of the Great Wall of China and Yellow Crane Tower being particularly popular for their fine details. She consumes the sculptures as part of her cooking and uses scraps as animal feed to avoid waste.

Man suffers brain haemorrhage after roller coaster ride

A 40-year-old man from Taiwan claims a visit to the Ferrari World roller coaster led to a brain haemorrhage requiring surgery. He reported dizziness and headaches after the high-speed, high-G-force ride, with scans later revealing chronic bleeding in his skull.

Doctors explained that age-related brain shrinkage and reduced blood vessel elasticity can make older adults more susceptible to injury from intense acceleration and deceleration. The man shared his story on social media, prompting warnings from others over 40 about the risks of roller coasters, especially for those with eye or vascular conditions.

Published in Dawn, Young World, April 25th, 2026

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