One of the things that helps to inspire people is the progress and achievements of their peers. This is as true of jugglers as it is of anyone, and perhaps even more so. Because of this, Steve Healey created a database of juggling records. Anyone could sign up and post their achievements, and compare themselves to their peers. This service became popular among the jugglers who hang out online.
Unfortunately, Steve’s server choked, and for whatever reason, he did not resuscitate it. Since the service was still in high demand, and Steve could not be contacted, Colin E. copied the idea and created the Juggling Records Database section of the Internet Juggling Database. Much of what was on Steve’s site was ported over, and most people switched to Colin’s service.
Colin’s database improved upon Steve’s in many ways. His server is much faster than Steve’s ever was, and Colin put’s a lot more work into his site on a regular basis, which tends to result in a more stable, reliable site. He also added a feature that will automatically chart your progress as you add records. The main page of the Records Database features a comprehensive list of the most interesting additions.
His database is still far from perfect of course; he left out my favorite part of Steve’s site—the ability to comment on and rate the plausibility of other people’s records. But even with it’s shortcomings, I find it’s a great improvement, and fun way to compete with and be inspired by my fellow jugglers. I just wish more people would add their records and keep them up to date, so we would have a more comprehensive listing.