Above: A formation takes shape over Skydive Chicago. Photo by Elliot Byrd.
Doug Barron takes a side body on Ryan Scarlett while he geeks the camera. Photo by Elliot Byrd.Skydive Chicago in Ottawa, Illinois, hosted the 10th Annual All-American Invitational big-way event July 3-6. Founder and organizer Doug Barron can hardly believe it’s been a decade since he launched the flagship event. “It’s wild to think about how far we've come,” says Barron. “It’s not just me. I’m honored and lucky to be surrounded by incredible people who make these events happen.”
Barron started AAI in 2016 to add to other big-way events happening around the country. The idea was to have people use it as motivation to build on their existing big-way skills and to show how formations could be more than just cats and bipoles. Barron’s vision was to create a signature event that went above and beyond what others were doing. He wanted to create skydives that would challenge jumpers and host group dinners where people could get to know each other and bond in a meaningful way. He wanted to offer practical swag that jumpers could use and wear with pride. Over the years, the branded keepsakes have included rig sleeves, jackets, fanny packs and personalized travel mugs.
Each year has built on lessons from the previous year as dive plans have become more complex and creative. Formations have taken the shape of the American flag, the logo from his 4-way team Rhythm, a giant paw print that doubled as a fundraiser for an animal nonprofit organization and once, his own mustache. This year’s jumps included a day of 16-ways, then 30-ways and one attempt—before getting winded out—to successfully complete a 64-way Roman numeral X for the 10th anniversary.
Many skydivers have attended multiple events, honing their skills together, while Elliot Byrd, lead videographer of Byrd’s Eye Studio, has captured the action. This year, participants ranged in age from 25 to 75. Cate Allington is the only person aside from Barron and Byrd who has attended all of the AAI events over the years. She returns because of the challenge, entertainment and camaraderie of the people who Barron attracts. She received a one-of-a-kind green T-shirt to commemorate her 100% attendance.
“It’s one of my favorite events,” Allington says. “Doug’s leadership is phenomenal. He brings out the best in every participant, and I’ve made fantastic friends over the years. Each year I’m very excited to get an invitation and see what crazy formations Doug has conjured up for us.”
The All-American Invitational attendees pose together. Photo by Elliot Byrd.
Allington presented Barron with a framed collection of logos from each event, created by Erika Woodrum, a fellow returning AAI participant. Byrd produced a retrospective video with highlights from past years. Barron, moved by the gratitude shown by all participants, shows no sign of slowing down. “To see my dream come to fruition means everything,” Barron says. “I couldn’t be more excited to see what’s ahead.”
Lana Starchuck
Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada