If you’re someone looking for something to challenge your mind and body, skydiving may be the perfect activity for you. What first was mainstreamed as a military tactical move by airmen in World War II, has become a pastime enjoyed by people all over the world. Due to the nature of the sport and its fascinating history, there are many interesting facts about skydiving. Below you will find seven facts that are worth “jumping” over.
- Highest Skydive
Felix Baumgartner currently holds the record for the highest skydive. Jumping from a height of nearly 128,000 feet, Baumgartner broke the world record which was previously set by Captain Kittinger. During his twenty-minute descent to the ground, Baumgartner hit a maximum speed of 883 mph.
- Little To No Risk Of Dying
It is estimated that more than 3 million skydives take place every year. Out of these skydives, there is less than a 1% chance of a fatal accident. The risk of dying in a car crash is more probable than dying from skydiving.
- 30 Second Tattoo
In Edmonton, Canada, while free falling to the ground at 120 mph, Shannon Claydon tattooed “AHHH” onto a fellow skydiver. This feat was managed with a battery powered ink gun and was accomplished in 30 seconds.
- Oldest Skydiver
The oldest person to ever skydive was 102 years old. The record was set in 2017 by Kenny Meyer of Union, New Jersey. The jump was made at about 13,000 feet which gave Kenny approximately a minute of free falling. As Kenny landed, onlookers could see him waving two American flags and yelling “USA! We got the record!”.
- Youngest Skydiver
The youngest skydiver was only 4 years old. Toni Stadler of Cape Town, South Africa completed a tandem jump from 10,000 feet. Toni’s favorite part of the jump was being able to see Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was held during Apartheid.
- Largest Formation Skydiving
The largest skydiving formation was comprised of 400 people. The record was set by the World Team, in 2006 while located in Thailand. The jump was made at 25,000 feet, and the formation was held for 4.25 seconds.
- Most Jumps Made In 24 Hours
Jay Stokes of Greensburg celebrated his 50th birthday by setting the record for most jumps made in a 24-hour period. Jumping 640 times, Stokes broke his previous record of 534 jumps. With the help of a couple dozen volunteers, 3 planes, and 23 parachutes Stokes was able to accomplish this dream.