Keasha Maile FEO, July 18, 2024, VOL. 5 ISSUE 23
Sherkston Shores Resort became a hub of excitement and awe as this year’s Skyfest unfolded, captivating beachgoers with a breathtaking skydiving spectacle presented by Fort Erie’s own GERONIMO! Skydiving Team. The annual event, steeped in history, commemorates the pioneering spirit of Canadian aviation, particularly honouring Frank Ellis’s historic parachute jump in 1919, which took place locally at Bay Beach in Crystal Beach.
The GERONIMO! Team, in collaboration with the Round Canopy Parachuting Team – USA, captivated spectators with a day filled with exhilarating stunts and mesmerizing aerial displays. The event commenced with a breathtaking “flag jump,” as team members descended from the skies proudly clutching a large Canadian flag. This iconic moment not only symbolized national pride but also embodied the daring spirit of adventure that defines skydiving.
The participation of both teams underscored the event’s status as a premier skydiving spectacle, drawing attention not only for its thrilling displays but also for its celebration of teamwork and passion for flight. As parachutes unfurled against the expansive sky, spectators were reminded of the skill and courage required to execute such daring feats.
David Hamilton, a veteran skydiver and integral member of Round Canopy Parachuting Team – USA, shared his passion for the sport and reflected on his decades-long journey since his first jump in 1987. “It’s a little scary when you first get into it and start training… but my favorite part is enjoying the quiet ride down after jumping out of that noisy aircraft,” Hamilton revealed. He emphasized the profound camaraderie fostered within the skydiving community, stating, “Our motto is ‘More Than Just A Jump’ – in this sport, you make friends for life.”
As the day progressed, skydivers continued to push the boundaries of aerial performance, thrilling audiences with gravity-defying maneuvers and acrobatics against the backdrop of Lake Erie. The event reached its pinnacle with a special jump designed to delight younger attendees, featuring beloved superheroes joining the skydivers in a magical display of airborne heroism.
Reflecting on the success of Skyfest, team members expressed heartfelt gratitude to participants and attendees for their enthusiastic support. Janie Wallace, a founding member of GERONIMO!, emphasized, “Skyfest is more than just showcasing aerial skills; it’s a celebration of community and the spirit of adventure.” The event not only pays homage to Fort Erie’s aviation heritage but also aims to inspire future generations to embrace the thrill of flight.
The GERONIMO! Skydiving Team extends their sincere thanks to all community partners who contributed to the event’s success. They express gratitude to Sherkston Shores Resort for hosting, Skydive Burnaby for ensuring safe transport for divers, and to the Port Colborne Marine Auxiliary Rescue and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 230 (Ridgeway) for their invaluable support. These partnerships were instrumental in making the event a memorable celebration of skydiving and community spirit.
For those who missed this year’s Skyfest, organizers encourage marking calendars for next year’s event. It promises not only breathtaking aerial displays but also the chance to experience firsthand the excitement and camaraderie that define this unique celebration of flight and community.
