[boomergeek]

Using humans as sandbags does not seem like a thoughtful undertaking when such a forceful arm is swinging within inches of the "sandbags". Especially when there is nothing keeping humans from swaying into the path of the kicker. I think one of the attached photos shows a gouged and bloodied forearm.
Was that due to a human playing the role of a sandbag?

Any fast moving pendulum should typically have safety cages to help prevent accidents. Think safety first, especially when adolescents and cookie rewards are involved.

Maybe cookie bets on beating power/distance records are counterproductive to rational safety assessments.

Just imagine if the were no safety issues and we could all just enjoy the demonstration of engineering acheivement...

There is always next time.