More than 60 skydivers played in the skies over Skydive San Diego in Jamul, California, on December 2 during the DZ’s first Sisters in Skydiving event, Women of the Sky. Jumpers from many Southern California drop zones attended. The weekend’s theme was “Burning Sky’s San Diego style,” which combined elements of the Burning Man festival with the laid-back-surfer mentality San Diego is known for. Tech company Sigma—which partners with USPA to provide digital credentials—provided event T-shirts and sunglasses and sponsored the morning coffee bar, continental breakfast and virtual reality experience.
Fortunately, the warm San Diego winter weather did not disappoint, and jumping conditions were optimal. The day began with an early morning yoga session followed by pajama jumps. “In preparation for the event, we wanted to highlight the incredible qualities and backgrounds of the women from Skydive San Diego, as well as the ladies who frequent the other DZs in the area. To generate interest and social media buzz, I posted profiles and pictures of those ladies who would be attending,” said Mary Tortomasi, the event’s organizer.
Men were welcome at the event and their presence added to the fun. “We love playing in the sky with our brothers in skydiving,” said Ashley Despar, a mother of two and a newly A-licensed jumper.
To keep the day fun and safe, the organizers passed out raffle tickets to anyone who demonstrated goodwill, made a nice landing or participated in a virtual reality experience. Vendors 100% Sports Wear, iFLY Oceanside, iFLY San Diego, Mirage Systems, Square 1, Sun Path Products, Velocity Sports Equipment and others graciously donated the prizes. The fun lasted well into the evening with entertainment provided by an all-women band.
To mark the drop zone’s first SIS event, the DZ charged no registration fee, and it discounted the day’s jumps. The drop zone plans on hosting the event annually, and DZ Manager Greg Lund said, “We look forward to supporting the women once again.”
Mary Tortomasi | D-19869
Menifee, California