Jason Gonzalez and Viviana De Jesus of Xtreme Divers West in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, hosted the 16th Puerto Rico Freefall Festival February 7-11, an event many thought impossible after the island suffered a direct blow from Hurricane Maria last year. With the help of organizers Scott Callantine, John Jaworski and Simon Palacio, the boogie had another superb year. Arecibo Municipality, JQ Photoxtreme, Medalla Light, Monster Energy, Rums of Puerto Rico and Salitre Restaurant stepped up to sponsor the event despite their own post-hurricane challenges.

Palacio remarked, “This was my first time visiting Puerto Rico, and I wasn’t sure what to expect, given the recent hurricane and all that I’ve heard about the party atmosphere of the people. I arrived in the evening at Salitre, the beachfront restaurant, bar and gracious host to the rowdy fun-loving boogie crowd. Before I could drop my bag, at least five excited local jumpers sprang up to welcome the newcomer with local beer and rum.”

The boogie featured many beach jumps, as well as lots of sit-fly, angle and tracking dives. The third night featured the famous Rums of Puerto Rico party, which included rare small-batch local rums and a troupe of local musicians and dancers who entertained the crowds. Palacio said, “I could go on forever about the great new friends I made, the excellent catering, endless beer and rum, fantastic local restaurants and cuisine, beautiful beach jumps all day long, the warm nights walking the beaches and the incredible hospitality of the Puerto Ricans, but it’s just easier to simply say, ‘This boogie should be on your calendar every single year.’ I’m in love with Puerto Rico!”

Next year’s freefall festival is already on the books for February 13-17. More information about the DZ and the annual boogie is available at xtremedivers.com.

Viviana De Jesus | C-36615
Orlando, Florida