Skydivers in the Speed 100-Way Skydiving Competition. Photo: Tony Hathaway

Skydive City

In March 1999, hundreds of skydivers came from around the world to Zephyrhills, Florida, to participate in a unique competition. The contest was to build three skydiving formations on three different jumps, each with a different pattern. Several skydiving centers across the United States participated in the event, held at various times during the year.

The group that built these formations the fastest was declared the winner. Jumping from five aircraft, flying in formation at 15,000 feet above the ground, the 100 men and women at Skydive City achieved the fastest time of just over 50 seconds to complete the formation, falling at more than 120 mph. Two more 100-way formations were built in the next two jumps, each with 100 people, in under 60 seconds.

Skydivers from all over the country came to this event, for only here could they find other skydivers with the skill and experience to perform this difficult feat. Project documentation consists of text and thirteen 8 x 10 glossy photographs.

Originally submitted by: Michael Bilirakis, Representative (9th District).

More Local Legacies... Additional Florida Local Legacies Local Legacies for all U.S. States

The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.

Learn More About It... Related Web Site MODS METS