The Games

This article was first published in its original form at skydivemag.com.

On October 11-14, Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld and Patrick Passe hosted “The Games” at Skydive Perris in California, a series of high-end sequential or intricate single-point 72- to 76-ways. Skydivers drew jumps out of a hat, and after completion (or, at most, three attempts), they moved on to a new challenging skydive. Within minutes of each draw, participants had the pre-slotted jumps on their phones, thanks to Rob Jonson’s app, Skydive Designer, and excellent communication from Jen Domenico. After that, skydivers had just a few minutes to see the jump sequence, visualize and get to dirt diving.

Unfortunately, Brodsky-Chenfeld had to sit out the skydives themselves due to a shoulder injury, but it didn’t take long to find a ringer to fill his slot—Craig Girard! The organization team—including Brodsky-Chenfeld, Kate Cooper-Jensen, Girard, Larry Henderson, Scott Latinis and Passe—spent nearly a month preparing and finalizing more than a dozen possible jumps, and secured an all-star camera crew of Bruno Brokken, Kristian Caulder and Craig O’Brien. They captured every moment—whether in the plane, in the sky or on the ground.

Throughout the event, the group drew six unique jumps, each with their own goals and challenges. They included single formations and sequential skydives, and were done primarily with two Twin Otters and two Skyvans, but there were surprises (such as slotting in a Twin Otter and ending up in a Skyvan). However, the team adapted to whatever arose. Load organizers ensured their sectors were prepared, jammed up and calm before exit at 16,500 feet AGL.

 The slots never remained the same between jumps: After a skydive, those on the outside moved inside, and vice versa. This gave everyone a chance to execute slots they were comfortable with, as well as challenge themselves in slots they may not be as comfortable with. Despite the added difficulty, the base maintained a solid fall rate throughout. One of the more notable skydives was named “Jump 7,” designed by Brodsky-Chenfeld. It was a wild one, with a 16-way base, and incredibly fun to build.

The atmosphere at the event was friendly, fun and electric, including the standard P3 happy-hour-plus-tacos night. And in addition to the organizers and videographers, the event ran smoothly thanks to the Skydive Perris staff, including pilots, manifest, ground crew, riggers, packers and the restaurant staff. It was an interesting and unique format that kept everyone on their toes, and a repeat event in 2024 is already in the works.

About the Author

Ian Pedowitz, D-34298, is an accomplished formation skydiver and LiquidSky ambassador who calls Skydive Arizona in Eloy home. He has medaled in all four FS disciplines at USPA Nationals and participated in five large-formation sequential world records. He loves to travel across the United States and world for events (such as this one), has fond memories of the wonderful people he’s met and is grateful to all who make our sport possible.