Pittsburgh-Area Kickboxer Gabby Viola to Attempt Guinness World Record for Jump Kicks
Team USA Athlete Sets Sights on History While Raising Funds for International Competition
Most athletes dream of breaking records. This summer, Gabriella “Gabby” Viola is preparing to do exactly that.
On July 19, 2026, at the Kick 5K & Kick-A-Thon fundraiser in Irwin, Pennsylvania, the nationally ranked kickboxer and Team USA athlete will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the Most Jumping Martial Arts High Kicks on One Leg in 60 Seconds.
The current record stands at 109 kicks, set in 2025 by Pakistan’s Aiman Siddique in an extraordinary display of balance, power, endurance, and technical precision. Achieving more than one hundred explosive jumping kicks in a single minute requires elite-level athleticism, exceptional cardiovascular conditioning, and years of martial arts training.
Now, Gabby Viola hopes to make history.
More Than a Record Attempt
For Gabby, the challenge is about more than numbers.
The Norwin High School scholar-athlete, currently ranked #8 in her class academically and carrying highest honors, is also the #1 ranked WAKO USA Tatami Kickboxer in the Women’s -55kg division. A member of Team USA, she is pursuing an Olympic pathway through the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO).
The Guinness World Record attempt serves as a centerpiece for a community fundraiser supporting her upcoming international competition season, which includes the WKU World Championships in Germany this August and the WAKO World Championships in Italy this September.
“Setting a world record would be an incredible honor,” said Viola. “But what excites me most is using this opportunity to inspire others and help make my dream of representing Team USA on the world stage possible.”
Defying More Than the Competition
| Role | Organization | Focus / Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsored Athlete | United States Army | Selected athlete representing the U.S. Army Fight Team, promoting fitness, resilience, leadership, and national pride through elite competition |
| Athlete Ambassador | Edgar Snyder & Associates | Represents the firm at national and international competitions, media appearances, and community initiatives—symbolizing perseverance and excellence |
| Goodwill Ambassador | Western PA Police Athletic League | Advocates for youth mentorship, discipline, and positive police–community relationships through sport |
| Health Advocate | Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation | Raises awareness for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, empowering young athletes living with IBD |
| Elite Athlete | Gabby Viola | World champion competitor and international representative for Team USA |
Gabby’s journey has not been without challenges.
Diagnosed with bowel disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, at just seven years old, she has spent much of her life balancing elite athletic training with ongoing medical treatments and recovery. Despite the obstacles, she has become one of the most accomplished young kickboxers in the country and an advocate for others living with chronic illness. She is an IBD advocate.
Her story has resonated with athletes, families, and healthcare advocates alike, proving that a diagnosis does not define a person’s potential.
“Every time I step onto the mat, I want to show kids facing challenges that they can still chase big goals,” Viola said. “This record attempt is another opportunity to do that.”
A Decorated International Competitor
Gabby’s competitive resume continues to grow at an impressive pace. She has represented the United States around the world, earning medals in Hungary, Portugal, Canada, Ireland, England, Wales, and France.
Among her accomplishments:
- #1 Ranked WAKO USA Female Tatami Athlete (-55kg)
- Team USA National Champion
- WKC Junior World Champion
- US Open Open-Weight Champion
- Century Cup Open-Weight Champion
- ICO World Championships Overall Fighting Grand Champion
- Multiple international gold medalist
Now she is aiming to add “Guinness World Record Holder” to that list.
Witness History in the Making Guinness World Record for Jump Kicks
The record attempt will take place during the Kick 5K & Kick-A-Thon on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Irwin Park in Irwin, Pennsylvania. The family-friendly community event includes a 5K challenge, walk/run options, games, food vendors, live entertainment, contests, and fundraising activities benefiting Team Kumite International.
At approximately 3:30 PM, all eyes will turn to Gabby as she attempts to surpass the world-record mark of 109 jumping kicks in just 60 seconds.
Whether she breaks the record or not, the effort represents the values that have defined her journey: perseverance, discipline, courage, and an unwavering belief that extraordinary goals are worth pursuing.
For one minute this July, a Pittsburgh-area teenager will have the chance to make history—and inspire countless others to chase their own impossible dreams.
About Gabby Viola
Gabriella “Gabby” Viola is an elite martial artist and international competitor representing Team USA in sport karate and kickboxing. A high-achieving student and dedicated mentor, Viola is recognized globally for her competitive success, leadership, and commitment to community impact. She is currently ranked #1 by WAKO USA, the national governing body for kickboxing in the United states under the U.S. Olympic committee. Beyond her competitive success, Viola’s journey is defined by resilience. Competing at the highest international level while managing and overcoming inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), she has refused to let adversity limit her goals. Her ability to balance elite training, academics, and global competition while facing health challenges serves as a powerful example of mental toughness and perseverance. Through her platform, Viola continues to inspire athletes and families navigating similar obstacles—proving that determination and discipline can overcome even the toughest challenges. She serves as an advocate and inspiration to find a cure.
