Guest #1 May 9, 2003 Jumping a round canopy is so extraordinary these days that people occasionally do it just for the novelty. Some folks here will be doing so tomorrow. Saturday, the 10th of May, is Snohomish's annual "Green Meet", so named for the color of the canopies (olive drab), plus moolah is involved (closest to the target wins the pot) and because it usually takes place around St. Patrick's Day (but delayed this year). I made a round jump two years ago (static line from three grand) at the Green Meet, and it was a memorable experience. I was using a Northern Lite piggyback harness (didn't feel confident about being able to use the Capewells, the belly-mounted reserve, etc., so I opted for a modern rig), had a good spot and a clean exit. The weather was perfect that day, it was warm and sunny and the skies were clear. Under canopy, I was amazed at how quiet it was. After hundreds of jumps under airfoil canopies, where one is busy flying and the wind is rushing by loudly, the contrast was amazing. I steered back down the windline towards the target, and could see that I had some forward motion. Not much, but it was there. Unfortunately, I was nowhere near the target. Darn. Oh well, time to set up for landing. Here was a chance for the first time ever to do a genuine PLF and I was determined to make it textbook. As I got close to the ground, I assumed the position: feet and knees together, legs slightly bent, toes pointed downward, eyes on the horizon, pulling up on the risers to absorb the landing shock.... I dropped gently and did a classic side-body roll. It was like kissing the earth, it was so soft and smooth. I jumped up and leaped around, hollering with delight. For being a dull old round canopy jump, it sure was a lot of fun! It was also an education of sorts, learning how things used to be "back in the day", when primordial skydivers were hopping from one foot to the other as they waited for the earth to cool. If you ever get a chance to make a round jump, take it, but make sure that the gear is in good shape and that it's been packed properly. There aren't a lot of the old-timers around anymore to pack or inspect these rigs anymore."The mouse does not know life until it is in the mouth of the cat." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jfields 0 #2 May 9, 2003 I would totally jump rounds just for the fun of it. I'd like to give it a shot without a ruck, weapon and all the other hindrances I had before. I'm fine with the bellywart reserve and Capewells. So, when are we doing T-10 jumps? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
