Jacques Mayol One of the greatest divers in the world, he was the first to reach a depth of one hundred meters while holding his breath on November 23, 1976. Date of Birth: 01.04.1927 Country: France

1. Biography of Jacques Mayol
2. Introduction to Freediving
3. Influence on "The Big Blue"
4. Tragic End and Legacy
5. Bond with Dolphins
6. Homo Delphinus

Biography of Jacques Mayol

Jacques Mayol (French: Jacques Mayol; April 1, 1927 – December 22, 2001) was one of the greatest divers in the world, becoming the first person to reach a depth of 100 meters on a single breath on November 23, 1976. He was a multiple world champion in freediving. Mayol, who was of French nationality, was born in Shanghai.

Introduction to Freediving

When Mayol first entered the world of freediving, the record for the deepest dive was set by Italians Enzo Falco and Alberto Novelli at just 41 meters. Throughout his life, Mayol more than doubled this record, with his final achievement dating back to 1983 at a depth of 105 meters. As an explorer, he studied the potential of human diving abilities and introduced breathing and concentration exercises from yoga into the practice of freedivers.

Influence on "The Big Blue"

Mayol's life story and accomplishments inspired French filmmaker Luc Besson to create the film "The Big Blue." Mayol participated in the production as a consultant and one of the screenwriters. The film explored the themes of diving and the relationship between humans and the ocean.

Tragic End and Legacy

At the age of 74, Mayol tragically took his own life on the island of Elba. He had been suffering from severe depression in his final months. Apart from his diving achievements, Mayol was known for his philosophical and mystical views on the relationship between humans and the ocean, as well as his close bond with dolphins.

Bond with Dolphins

Mayol's first experience of close interaction with dolphins occurred in 1957 when he worked as a technician at an oceanarium in Florida. There, he met a female bottlenose dolphin named Clown. Over the course of two years, a deep emotional connection formed between Mayol and Clown, significantly influencing his worldview and life perspective. After meeting Clown, freediving ceased to be just a sport for Mayol.

Homo Delphinus

In 1986, Mayol published a book titled "Homo Delphinus: The Dolphin Within Man," in which he shared his views on the preservation of the world's oceans and their significance to humanity. The book delved into the deep connection Mayol felt with dolphins and their role in shaping his understanding of the world.