In a breathtaking fusion of elite sport and high-altitude daring, champion gymnast Lily Smith has executed a precise balance beam routine suspended 52 storeys above the streets of Manhattan.
A High-Flying Feat of Precision and Nerve
The thrill-seeking athlete, a five-time All-American and Red Bull competitor, performed the specially choreographed sequence on a rooftop as part of a unique collaboration between beauty giant Rimmel London and energy drink brand Red Bull. The event on 16th January 2026 was staged to launch Rimmel's new Thrill Seeker Mega Lift mascara.
Smith, renowned for achieving perfect 10 scores in NCAA competition, developed the routine independently. It featured a series of gravity-defying tricks, with the most demanding element being a complex front-toss-pike manoeuvre. Adding to the extreme nature of the performance, the beam was positioned an extra 9.5 feet off the rooftop surface – twice the standard competition height.
Blending Artistry with Extreme Athleticism
Speaking about the unique challenge, Lily Smith said: "Performing this routine in such a unique and unusual setting, ahead of my college season, was a total thrill for me. This challenge reflects what I strive for in my sport - pushing limits, embracing creativity, and expressing my own style."
She drew on her diverse training background to create the performance, blending elements from competitive beam routines with inspiration from early rhythmic gymnastics training and the graceful movements of classical ballet. To execute the routine flawlessly at such a remarkable height, Smith relied on her intense focus, controlled breathing, and visualisation techniques.
A Collaboration Built on Fearless Ambition
Janine Fernandes from Rimmel London commented on the partnership: “Partnering with Red Bull on this adrenaline-fuelled project, 52 stories above the ground, is an incredible moment for Rimmel. Lily’s extraordinary achievement and fearless ambition mirrors our own 190-year heritage of empowering bold self-expression.”
The new mascara being launched, the Thrill Seeker Mega Lift, is promoted as an innovation that delivers up to six times more visible lash volume compared to bare lashes. Fernandes added: “Bringing these two powerhouse brands together for the launch was a natural fit, and we’re excited to keep pushing the limits, in beauty and beyond.”
As she heads into her 2026 competition season, Smith plans to carry the confidence from this high-flying experience with her. She stated her intention to "stay calm, confident, and completely fearless, always," suggesting this unique stunt may fuel even greater achievements in her conventional gymnastics career.
