#Red Bull #Molly Carlson #Iceberg Dive

Molly Carlson's Historic Iceberg Dive

On June 11, 2026, Canadian athlete Molly Carlson made history by becoming the first woman to dive from a free-standing iceberg. This momentous occasion occurred off the coast of Twillingate, Newfoundland, where Carlson executed a daring backwards dive from a height of approximately 15 meters, marking her highest dive to date.

Carlson's remarkable achievement was a part of the Red Bull Iceberg Dive project, a venture that showcases exceptional feats in extreme sports. Supported by a skilled team from Ocean Quest Adventures and Crosby Marine Film Services, Carlson was well-prepared for the challenges presented by the iceberg's dynamic nature, which is notorious for rolling, calving, or shifting unexpectedly.

The Preparation

In preparation for this monumental dive, Carlson underwent extensive training with seasoned ice climber Will Gadd. Gadd, a fellow Red Bull athlete with over 30 years of experience, provided invaluable insights and coaching. Their training began in Canmore, Alberta, where Gadd instructed Carlson in essential ice climbing techniques. This foundation was critical as they needed to scale the iceberg safely, using a temporary rigging system that Gadd skillfully set up on site.

After mastering the climbing aspect, Carlson’s training took her to Montréal, Quebec, where she engaged in rigorous cold-water training and wetsuit tests. The preparation process was intense and required not just physical endurance but also mental fortitude, as the conditions could change rapidly.

The Dive Itself

When the day of the dive arrived, Carlson and Gadd faced unpredictable ocean swells and shifting weather patterns. Navigating these elements was challenging. Once they reached the iceberg’s peak, Carlson prepared to take the plunge. As she stood at the edge of the ice, the thrill of the moment was palpable—not just for her, but for the entire crew supporting her.

Carlson described the experience as one of the