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English reading practice - Record Breakers - The Force is Strong (C1/C2 Advanced)

In a galaxy not so far away, there's a man whose dedication to the Star Wars universe knows no bounds. Meet Steve Sansweet, the Jedi Master of Star Wars memorabilia, who has not only embraced the Force but has also shattered records, proving that his passion for a galaxy far, far away is truly out of this world.


Steve Sansweet's journey into the world of Star Wars collecting began like any other fan – with a deep love for the epic space saga. Little did he know that his admiration for lightsabers, droids, and iconic characters would lead him down a path of record-breaking proportions.


Sansweet's passion for Star Wars memorabilia is infectious, and he doesn't just collect; he curates a museum-worthy collection that rivals the archives of the Jedi Temple. From action figures to movie posters, rare collectables to life-sized replicas, if it's Star Wars-related, you can bet Steve Sansweet has it in his possession.


In 2011, Steve Sansweet achieved what many collectors could only dream of – he broke the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia. To put this into perspective, Sansweet's collection boasts an astonishing 500,000 unique items but only 93,260 items have been audited and catalogued – a number that beats the previous holder of this title by a factor of four, making it a treasure trove for fans and a jaw-dropping spectacle for anyone lucky enough to witness it.


The record-breaking moment was a celebration not just for Sansweet but for Star Wars enthusiasts around the world. The Force was undeniably strong with this collector, and the galaxy celebrated as he etched his name into the Star Wars history books.


Sansweet's dedication goes beyond personal accomplishment; he turned his passion into a legacy by establishing Rancho Obi-Wan, a non-profit organisation and the ultimate haven for Star Wars aficionados. Located in Northern California, this museum-like facility houses Steve's vast collection, offering fans a chance to bask in the glory of Star Wars history.

Visitors to Rancho Obi-Wan can explore the countless exhibits, from vintage action figures to original movie props. Sansweet's dream is not just to hoard Star Wars treasures but to share the magic of the galaxy with fans of all ages.



Steve Sansweet's love for Star Wars has become a force of its own, transcending the limits of ordinary fandom. He's not just a collector; he's a guardian of the galaxy, preserving the spirit of George Lucas's creation for generations to come.


As the Star Wars saga continues to expand with new movies, TV shows, and merchandise, Steve Sansweet remains at the forefront, adding to his colossal collection. Who knows what the future holds for this Jedi Master of collectables? One thing is for sure – the Force is strong with Steve Sansweet, and his journey is far from over.


In a galaxy full of fans, enthusiasts, and collectors, Steve Sansweet stands as a beacon of Star Wars devotion, proving that when it comes to love for a galaxy far, far away, the only limit is our imagination. May the Force be with you, Steve, as you continue to inspire and awe us with your incredible Star Wars journey!


Check your understanding

  1. What Guinness World Record did Steve Sansweet break, and in which year did he achieve this milestone?

  2. Describe the significance of Rancho Obi-Wan in Steve Sansweet's Star Wars journey. How does it contribute to the Star Wars community?

  3. What distinguishes Steve Sansweet's approach to collecting Star Wars memorabilia from that of an average fan?

  4. How does the article emphasise Steve Sansweet's impact on preserving and sharing the magic of the Star Wars universe?

  5. In what ways does Steve Sansweet's passion for Star Wars extend beyond personal achievement, and how has he transformed his love for the franchise into a lasting legacy?


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Vocabulary
  1. Curates: Careful and deliberate selection and organisation, not just accumulating items haphazardly but actively managed and arranged much like a museum curator.

  2. Non-profit organisation: A non-profit organisation is an entity that operates for a charitable, educational, or social cause, and any profits it generates are used to further those objectives rather than being distributed to its members or owners.

  3. Legacy: The lasting impact and contributions that Steve Sansweet is making to the Star Wars community. It implies that his influence and dedication will continue to inspire and be remembered for generations.

  4. Hoard: To accumulate and store a large quantity of something meaning it is extensive and varied, creating a sense of abundance and richness.

  5. Colossal: Extremely large and impressive.

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