It takes all kinds doesn't it?
Talk about risk? Being the age I am, I know well what happened to numerous aircraft that came close to or exceeded the sound barrier when the shockwave or other aerodynamic forces ripped the aircraft to pieces.
I have to ask what possible gain in technology was achieved here? Is mankind in a better position in some way due to this man's "heroic" (by some counts) effort?
I don't claim to know it all and my mind is open, but right now, I somehow equate this to Evil Kneival type activity.. School me...