Sinkster 0 #1 July 9, 2004 I have semi-low jump numbers (100+) and am not current (but I will be this weekend weather permitting), but I am planning on attending Bridge Day to make a single BASE jump and then retire from BASE jumping. :) I kinda got bored of skydiving (and flying small airplanes once I did my first solo cross country and had to hit the books) when the intense experience wore off (i stopped being scared shitless and instead am just scared now hehe), so I quit jumping, but I am getting back on the horse just enough to do one BASE jump with reasonable safety. (have already decided BASE is too risky for me to do with any regularity at all, but have dreamed about doing it many times, so one time is worth the risk for me!) I wager with the altitude of the bridge and the water for landing there is enough wiggle room where my ability is not 100%. Anyway, does anyone think I am wrong for this? Just curious what the community feels about what is going to be essentially a BASE tandem for me. Don't get me wrong, I am planning on training for it, practicing exits at a pool, working on my landings, etc. (it is an epic adventure for me :)) But, I am going to be taking blatent advantage of the relative safety and accessibility of Bridge Day, to do a jump I might not do, without that opportunity. In other words, like tandems, Bridge Day is a shortcut to instant air-gratification due to the low requirements and ease of accessibility. (not that i'm complaining) I know I might get flamed for this, but I'm just curious as to what people think about it. Will this sort of thing 'hurt' BASE jumping like some people claim tandems have for skydiving? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gus 1 #2 July 9, 2004 At least you're honest! I've never been to Bridge Day and I don't know dick about dick but I'm going to offer my £0.02 anyway. If you're dead set on doing what you've described then my guess is that BD is one of the best places to do it. I'm sure others will offer more educated opinions. BD faq GusOutpatientsOnline.com Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFKING 4 #3 July 9, 2004 QuoteI'm sure others will offer more educated opinions. If you're expecting an educated opinion, please disregard my post. Sinkster, I have no BASE jumps, but your thinking pretty much dovetails with mine. Bridge Day 2004 is going to be my first, and was chosen for the same reasons.....I've heard from a million sources that it is probably the "safest" first BASE jump possible. If it's going to be your only one, at least it sounds like you've thought it through, are aware of the risks, and are going to prepare accordingly for it. I don't see how only doing one BASE could hurt the image of the sport. Don"When in doubt I whip it out, I got me a rock-and-roll band. It's a free-for-all." Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bps 0 #4 July 9, 2004 Hi Sinkster -- It sounds like you taking a calculated approach which is certainly the right thing to do. In my opinion, a big part of what Bridge Day is about is providing the opportunity for folks to make a BASE jump in a relatively safe environment. By no means is any BASE jump safe or guaranteed, but Bridge Day provides a lot of tools that makes it safer than the average jump. With the right approach (which you are taking), I think it is reasonable for you to make a BASE jump at Bridge Day. My suggestion would be for you to find an experienced BASE jumper in your area (if possible) and have him/her guide you on proper gear selection. Riggers can certainly help you with this too, but please be sure that they have an understanding of modern-day BASE rigging, or if they don't, be sure that they can and will educate themselves on today's standards. Once you have safe and functional gear lined-up, you can look towards training. Canopy Control. Try to skydive the gear that you will be using at Bridge Day, and do so more than once. Get a feel for what it is like to correct an off-heading with your brakes stowed (object strike is possible -- even at Bridge Day). Learn to do flat-turns under the canopy. Learn what it is like to fly in half brakes and deep brakes. While landing in the water is a good option and should not be a problem, you never know when you might have to land somewhere else due to post-opening problems, so learn as much as you can about the canopy and how to fly it before arriving in West Virginia. Exits. A swimming pool is a great place to practice. Once again, if you can talk an experienced BASE jumper into watching/coaching you, that would be the better option. If you can't, try to have a friend video tape your sessions at the pool so you can review and critique yourself. On a basic BASE launch, you do not want to jump out into a flat and stable body position as it will likely result in going head-low. A better way to look at it is: step-off and DO NOT leave your feet behind -- your feet should almost lead the way with your chest slightly in front. When you jump off the side of a pool (try to stand on a box so you are 12 to 18 inches off the water) your knees should hit the water first with your chest slightly in front when viewed from the side. Practice this over and over learn what it feels like to launch too far forward and not forward enough -- and try to practice this over 2 or 3 sessions at the pool. Bridge Day. Be sure to show up by Thursday at the latest. Take advantage of every seminar you can get your hands on. Talk to folks and enjoy the fun and exciting atmosphere that only Bridge Day can provide. The seminars and training will make more sense since you've practiced much of it beforehand. And be sure to savor the first time you are truly on the edge -- it will be a moment in time that you will remember forever. If you have any more questions, feel free to post them here so others can learn too. Enjoy and Have Fun, Bryan Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bertusgeert 1 #5 July 9, 2004 I am in the same boat here, but with many less jumps. I talked to people and they said it would be allright if I get my numbers up before october, focusing on training for BASE. I intend to continue my BASE career, but much later, after I have about 200 jumps. I see this as an opportunity to learn a LOT about BASE jumping, which I can then apply to my skydiving to eventually apply it to my BASE career. follow me? Please do not flame me on this forum, but flaming is welcome in the PM. If you seriously think I am not able or prepared, let me know. $70 is much cheaper than my life. Thanks. Bertus G --------------------------------------------- As jy dom is moet jy bloei! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sinkster 0 #6 July 9, 2004 Thanks for the good advice! I can't wait!!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites TomAiello 26 #7 July 12, 2004 What Bryan said. With one other thought: BASE jumping and Bridge Day are not quite the same. Bridge Day has it's own culture and experience, which is quite distinct from the culture of BASE jumping. What you are contemplating is definitely within the bounds of Bridge Day, but would be well outside the realm of "normal" BASE. In short, go for it. But don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself.-- Tom Aiello Tom@SnakeRiverBASE.com SnakeRiverBASE.com Share this post Link to post Share on other sites base428 1 #8 July 12, 2004 I, along with many, many other BASE jumpers made their first BASE jump at Bridge Day. Before the year 2000, there were very few BASE First Jump Courses (FJC) in the US being offered (probably none that were legal). Bridge Day WAS the best place to learn (and sometimes the only place). In the last 4-5 years, a bunch of BASE FJC's have become available, which DO offer the best training. However, Bridge Day is and always will be a place for skydivers to make a safe, educated first BASE jump. It actually may be SAFER for a jumper to make his/her first jump at Bridge Day with all the water rescue, ambulances, gear checkers, 876' of altitude, and hundreds of experienced jumpers around to offer advice. The newer BASE FJC's are longer and do teach in more detail than Bridge Day (and they cost accordingly). Perhaps saying "But don't anyone think that means this is the best way to get into BASE itself" would be more appropriate? QuoteBut don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself.(c)2010 Vertical Visions. No unauthorized duplication permitted. <==For the media only Share this post Link to post Share on other sites BASE813 0 #9 July 12, 2004 QuoteTom, I couldn't disagree more with your statement. I, along with many, many other BASE jumpers made their first BASE jump at Bridge Day. Before the year 2000, there were very few BASE First Jump Courses (FJC) in the US being offered (probably none that were legal). Bridge Day WAS the best place to learn (and sometimes the only place). In the last 4-5 years, a bunch of BASE FJC's have become available, which DO offer the best training. However, Bridge Day is and always will be a place for skydivers to make a safe, educated first BASE jump. It actually may be SAFER for a jumper to make his/her first jump at Bridge Day with all the water rescue, ambulances, gear checkers, 876' of altitude, and hundreds of experienced jumpers around to offer advice. The newer BASE FJC's are longer and do teach in more detail than Bridge Day (and they cost accordingly). Perhaps saying "But don't anyone think that means this is the best way to get into BASE itself" would be more appropriate? QuoteBut don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself. once the newbie jumper who has made one or two jumps from the bridge day event, then what happens then? I know BD is a beast in itself - but I actually think that this is not a good way to get into BASE - i think there will always be the first time jumpers from this event that then think "i have started the BASE jumping" when in fact i feel that its more an amusement ride than anything else for the first time jumpers................... I am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... it may have been the only way once - but now a days and with a 50 jump limit to join i feel that BD as an entrance to BASE is misguided.......... i feel its like doing a tandem skydive and thinking that you skydive and know what its about.............. Feel free to flame my dirty injured arse!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites base428 1 #10 July 12, 2004 Have you ever been to Bridge Day? Bridge Day has recently been overshadowed by the greed of collecting $750-$1200 each from new jumpers for BASE FJC's. Bridge Day is a REAL BASE jump with REAL consequences. We always suggest that new jumpers get additional training after Bridge Day if they want to continue in our sport. The bottom line is that Bridge Day sold out in 6 days this year. 450 jumpers will be there having a ton of fun. Cya there.(c)2010 Vertical Visions. No unauthorized duplication permitted. <==For the media only Share this post Link to post Share on other sites brits17 0 #11 July 12, 2004 QuoteI know BD is a beast in itself - but I actually think that this is not a good way to get into BASE - i think there will always be the first time jumpers from this event that then think "i have started the BASE jumping" when in fact i feel that its more an amusement ride than anything else for the first time jumpers................... I am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... it may have been the only way once - but now a days and with a 50 jump limit to join i feel that BD as an entrance to BASE is misguided.......... Not flamin ya Mac but in the original posters defense, he has been exposed to the real 'culture' of BASE. He has done ground crew for us several times, and is quite 'heads up' on gear, policies, etc. In my opinion, Bridge Day is a great beginning. It was for me, and undoubtedly its the route Sinkster should take. He's been exposed, now its time to throw him off in a legal, span-type atmosphere. Sorry I took away your stealth Jake _______________________ aerialkinetics.com Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Zennie 0 #12 July 12, 2004 QuoteBridge Day is a REAL BASE jump with REAL consequences. Yes it is. Ask my buddy freeflynick. He shattered his heel last year when he hit a rock in the landing area making his second BASE jump. That said, I agree that BD is an ideal place to make one's first jump. We can debate over whether it, or the Potato bridge is the best, but BD was where I made my first jump and, as you have seen, where many others did theirs as well. It's not a carnival ride, though there is a bit of a carnival atmosphere to it. For me that's another part of Bridge Day's charm actually. Bridge Day is more than a BASE jump. It's also a social/educational event. You only jump for a 6 hour period, the remainder of the weekend is meeting with old friends, making new friends, talking about jumps & gear, and just generally having a good time. I'm really looking forward to BD this year. Might just have to do a 2-way with Sinkster to see the look on his face when he exits. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites CanuckInUSA 0 #13 July 12, 2004 I'm sure Bridge Day is a great time to be introduced to BASE and to meet many people from the BASE jumping community. But personally I think that the Perrine is a better location for our first 'X' number of BASE jumps. I mean what other bridge in the country is it legal to jump from 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The Perrine is not too tall and not too low and it does have a some what forgiving landing area (though it is still a BASE jump and is still dangerous). I still have so much to experience and learn, but I feel that there is no way in hell I would have my current BASE jumping experience if it wasn't for the Perrine. I am working my way towards jumping other (more difficult) objects, but it's so cool to learn things at the slightly safer comfines of the Perrine. Twin Falls and the Perrine rock!!! Oh and to the original poster of this thread. Make sure you've got your canopy control skills up to snuff before you try a BASE jump. There is some serious stuff out there ready to eat you alive and being able to control your canopy (at least for me) is the most important aspect of the sport. I'm sure some of the more experienced people would have other things to say, but I still feel that canopy control (outside of proper gear knowledge) is the key to having a chance at surviving the BASE environment. Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Faber 0 #14 July 18, 2004 QuoteI am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... I do agree to Mac that Its not the right place,but thats for the reasson that i think some people might cant take the pressure of thoussends of people watching one to jump off the first time,which means you might get a person jumping whith out really want to(in the end) HOWEVER,i think its the kind of events that is a great chance to skydivers to get "the smell of BASE",i do agree to Mac that it must be considdered like a try it if you like pack.However i think the point which some of you are missing is that Mac is conserned about the new jumpers after the event(in the same way after any other FJC),will the jumper need to find a mentor after that??and if so,should the mentor then take the person even as he has only 50ram air jumps?? Jason,you must not misunderstand this as i think you guys pull off a GREAT event,i think you make BASE a good thing for the public,and the fact that you can pull such an event up year after year,is just amasing Stay safe Stefan Faber Share this post Link to post Share on other sites motherhucker 0 #15 July 20, 2004 QuoteI have semi-low jump numbers (100+) and am not current (but I will be this weekend weather permitting), but I am planning on attending Bridge Day to make a single BASE jump and then retire from BASE jumping. :) My 2 cents may appear somewhere above my post already, but I'm too lazy to read through all of it so... Low jump numbers+uncurrency=much higher probability for injury/death. IMO, It doesn't matter that it's a bridge. It doesn't matter that it's 850+ ft high. BASE jumping happens from the second your feet leave an object to the second you hit the ground...NOT only until your canopy opens. Look through BD archives--PLENTY of people have been injured/killed at NRGB. Any dumbshit can huck themselves off of something--but it takes a bit more skill to land yourself where you want, uninjured, among obstacles. In short, don't take ANY BASE jump lightly--make SURE you have enough experience under canopy to deal with the shit that can go wrong. IMHO, from your description, right now you DO NOT. But that's just me. BTW, 100 jumps may be more than 1, but don't kid yourself--100 jumps is not SEMI-low jump #'s--it is LOW jump #'s. Ask yourself WHY you want to make a BASE jump and then quit? Sounds like a bragging right thing to me...And if it is, then why not wait a year to be current and build up some canopy time? Do with this what you will--it's probably mostly bullshite anyhow. mh Share this post Link to post Share on other sites mnischalke 0 #16 July 20, 2004 Excellent advice! I finally ordered my BD 2003 video and got it last week. I've seen the Lemmings videos, but I didn't expect this new, nearly real-time dvd to be so loaded with dumbasses, skydiving rigs (with D-bags), tree snags, toggle hooks into ground and water, flareless landings and a whole baskin-robbins-flavor assortment of other "bullshite." I think I could actually hear a bone snap on the video. Very entertaining, yet loaded with cringe moments. Like I said, excellent advice. mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites CanuckInUSA 0 #17 July 20, 2004 QuoteExcellent advice! I finally ordered my BD 2003 video and got it last week. I've seen the Lemmings videos, but I didn't expect this new, nearly real-time dvd to be so loaded with dumbasses, skydiving rigs (with D-bags), tree snags, toggle hooks into ground and water, flareless landings and a whole baskin-robbins-flavor assortment of other "bullshite." I think I could actually hear a bone snap on the video. Very entertaining, yet loaded with cringe moments. Like I said, excellent advice. Maybe you can't answer this question, but hopefully other can asnwer it. Is this dumbass Bridge Day skydiving footage you speak of the same footage as seen in the "Bridge Day Safety Video"? Or is this additional dumbass footage which took place last year? Also what are people's opinions about the over entertainment value of the Bridge Day 2003 DVD? Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Zennie 0 #18 July 20, 2004 QuoteIs this dumbass Bridge Day skydiving footage you speak of the same footage as seen in the "Bridge Day Safety Video"? Nope different videos. The safety video is sort of a "Best Of" of Will Forshay's "Lemmings Extremes", which was a Best & Worst of Bridge Day over the years. The safety video is sort of a "best of the best of", if you will. The video he's referring to is the footage from last year's Bridge Day. And yep, every year you get lots of botched exits and horrifying gear. The veterans will know better than me, but I get the sense that the gear has improved from years past. More folks seem to be using dedicated BASE gear.... even if only for that jump. As far as watchability goes... it is about a 3-4 hour long video, so it's not something you'd probably want to watch in one sitting... but I thought it was put together very well. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites CanuckInUSA 0 #19 July 20, 2004 Thanks for the info Zennie. I just needed to know if it was the same or different dumbass footage. But now that I know I'd be seeing different footage, then I may look into picking up a copy (even though I've yet to set foot on the NRGB and unfortunately won't be there in '04 as well). Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Zennie 0 #20 July 20, 2004 QuoteI just needed to know if it was the same or different dumbass footage. DDDD (Different Dumbass, Different Day). Sorry, just couldn't resist. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites mnischalke 0 #21 July 20, 2004 QuoteAs far as watchability goes... it is about a 3-4 hour long video, so it's not something you'd probably want to watch in one sitting... but I thought it was put together very well. Ummm, by the bottom of the 12-pack, I had finished it (even with a bunch of rewinds for my jumps and some other interesting stuff) in a sitting. Prolly wouldn't have if my last jump--a sweet little facing 2-way--wasn't at 2:40 sumpin. QuoteThe veterans will know better than me, but I get the sense that the gear has improved from years past. More folks seem to be using dedicated BASE gear.... even if only for that jump. Ya know, I have heard that too, but having only been there the past couple years, my first-hand knowledge is rather limited. Watch the video and figure out the percentage of spin-ups with d-bags in skydiving containers compared to the overall number of d-bag deployments. Seemed kinda high to me, but I was drunk. What do I know? Maybe skydiving rigs really are fine for BASE. After all, BD is only kinda BASE, right? mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Sinkster 0 #22 July 20, 2004 It's better bragging rights to make the jump with less skydives. (less skydives = more badass) Actually, I'm planning do to it once because of the large risk increase involved with doing it over and over again at my experience level. BASE is pretty f*cking dangerous. I realize that, but I also believe that more skydives will only help me a small amount UNLESS I jump a canopy that is just like what I would be jumping off the bridge. Would I be wrong in saying that hp skydiving canopy time is like driving a dump truck to prepare for a formula 1 race? (or vice versa) Since I'm not willing to buy a new canopy just for one BASE jump where I can take a water landing, I'm not going to bother. I'm current again and now feel confident about the bridge after making a couple skydives. If I was to keep BASE jumping right after bridge day I would agree with you though. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Faber 0 #23 July 20, 2004 QuoteBASE is pretty f*cking dangerous. I realize that, but I also believe that more skydives will only help me a small amount UNLESS I jump a canopy that is just like what I would be jumping off the bridge. your first thourght are correct,so why dont you understand that learning how to handel a canopy can help you in an envioment were canopy skills really matter?? guess what i bother alot about this sport,which is why i cant stand the oppinions you just made.. sounds more like a dumb act than an bad ass act to me.. sorry for the flames,but i think your will jump for a wrong reasson,And if you end up hurt or even killed it will harm the sport i like,which means it would hurt me... Its not a rolercoaster ride were your all safe if you just do 1 time,that 1 jump can change your life for the rest of it,if you stay alive... Please guys,if you know that you just want to try it once,why then even do it? Just my 2£ Stay safe Stefan Faber Share this post Link to post Share on other sites mnischalke 0 #24 July 20, 2004 QuoteI'm current again and now feel confident about the bridge after making a couple skydives. Bwaaahahaaahahaaaa... Yeah, and the view from the exit point is JUST like the one you get from the door of an Otter. And the landing area: huge and grassy. Make sure your cypres is on. mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Zennie 0 #25 July 20, 2004 Hey Jake, since I know you I'll subject you to a little less flameage, though my sentiments are in line with Mike & Faber. Dude, need I remind you about Nick's mishap last year? Yes, Bridge Day is a relatively safe BASE jump, by BASE jump standards, but it IS still a BASE jump. That means navigating to a fairly tight landing area, avoiding trees, rocks & such, dealing with messed up swirly winds & just generally landing in areas other than nicely manicured grass fields. Unless you plan on taking an intentional water landing, you really do need to continue to do some jumps and work on canopy skills. You don't need to buy another canopy. You can shoot accuracy, practice crosswind landings, etc with the one you have. Plus, if you can find a big enough container, I'll happily lend you my Sharpchuter so that you can get some practice in under a "big" F-111 canopy... they do fly differently. Plus you can practice flying & flaring the line mod... which is what you'll be doing at BD. Jake, do NOT underestimate the jump or the necessity for currency. Don't fall prey to the general American tendency of wanting something without putting in any effort to get it. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Prev 1 2 3 Next Page 1 of 3 0
TomAiello 26 #7 July 12, 2004 What Bryan said. With one other thought: BASE jumping and Bridge Day are not quite the same. Bridge Day has it's own culture and experience, which is quite distinct from the culture of BASE jumping. What you are contemplating is definitely within the bounds of Bridge Day, but would be well outside the realm of "normal" BASE. In short, go for it. But don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself.-- Tom Aiello Tom@SnakeRiverBASE.com SnakeRiverBASE.com Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
base428 1 #8 July 12, 2004 I, along with many, many other BASE jumpers made their first BASE jump at Bridge Day. Before the year 2000, there were very few BASE First Jump Courses (FJC) in the US being offered (probably none that were legal). Bridge Day WAS the best place to learn (and sometimes the only place). In the last 4-5 years, a bunch of BASE FJC's have become available, which DO offer the best training. However, Bridge Day is and always will be a place for skydivers to make a safe, educated first BASE jump. It actually may be SAFER for a jumper to make his/her first jump at Bridge Day with all the water rescue, ambulances, gear checkers, 876' of altitude, and hundreds of experienced jumpers around to offer advice. The newer BASE FJC's are longer and do teach in more detail than Bridge Day (and they cost accordingly). Perhaps saying "But don't anyone think that means this is the best way to get into BASE itself" would be more appropriate? QuoteBut don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself.(c)2010 Vertical Visions. No unauthorized duplication permitted. <==For the media only Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BASE813 0 #9 July 12, 2004 QuoteTom, I couldn't disagree more with your statement. I, along with many, many other BASE jumpers made their first BASE jump at Bridge Day. Before the year 2000, there were very few BASE First Jump Courses (FJC) in the US being offered (probably none that were legal). Bridge Day WAS the best place to learn (and sometimes the only place). In the last 4-5 years, a bunch of BASE FJC's have become available, which DO offer the best training. However, Bridge Day is and always will be a place for skydivers to make a safe, educated first BASE jump. It actually may be SAFER for a jumper to make his/her first jump at Bridge Day with all the water rescue, ambulances, gear checkers, 876' of altitude, and hundreds of experienced jumpers around to offer advice. The newer BASE FJC's are longer and do teach in more detail than Bridge Day (and they cost accordingly). Perhaps saying "But don't anyone think that means this is the best way to get into BASE itself" would be more appropriate? QuoteBut don't anyone think that means this is a good way to get into BASE itself. once the newbie jumper who has made one or two jumps from the bridge day event, then what happens then? I know BD is a beast in itself - but I actually think that this is not a good way to get into BASE - i think there will always be the first time jumpers from this event that then think "i have started the BASE jumping" when in fact i feel that its more an amusement ride than anything else for the first time jumpers................... I am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... it may have been the only way once - but now a days and with a 50 jump limit to join i feel that BD as an entrance to BASE is misguided.......... i feel its like doing a tandem skydive and thinking that you skydive and know what its about.............. Feel free to flame my dirty injured arse!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
base428 1 #10 July 12, 2004 Have you ever been to Bridge Day? Bridge Day has recently been overshadowed by the greed of collecting $750-$1200 each from new jumpers for BASE FJC's. Bridge Day is a REAL BASE jump with REAL consequences. We always suggest that new jumpers get additional training after Bridge Day if they want to continue in our sport. The bottom line is that Bridge Day sold out in 6 days this year. 450 jumpers will be there having a ton of fun. Cya there.(c)2010 Vertical Visions. No unauthorized duplication permitted. <==For the media only Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
brits17 0 #11 July 12, 2004 QuoteI know BD is a beast in itself - but I actually think that this is not a good way to get into BASE - i think there will always be the first time jumpers from this event that then think "i have started the BASE jumping" when in fact i feel that its more an amusement ride than anything else for the first time jumpers................... I am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... it may have been the only way once - but now a days and with a 50 jump limit to join i feel that BD as an entrance to BASE is misguided.......... Not flamin ya Mac but in the original posters defense, he has been exposed to the real 'culture' of BASE. He has done ground crew for us several times, and is quite 'heads up' on gear, policies, etc. In my opinion, Bridge Day is a great beginning. It was for me, and undoubtedly its the route Sinkster should take. He's been exposed, now its time to throw him off in a legal, span-type atmosphere. Sorry I took away your stealth Jake _______________________ aerialkinetics.com Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Zennie 0 #12 July 12, 2004 QuoteBridge Day is a REAL BASE jump with REAL consequences. Yes it is. Ask my buddy freeflynick. He shattered his heel last year when he hit a rock in the landing area making his second BASE jump. That said, I agree that BD is an ideal place to make one's first jump. We can debate over whether it, or the Potato bridge is the best, but BD was where I made my first jump and, as you have seen, where many others did theirs as well. It's not a carnival ride, though there is a bit of a carnival atmosphere to it. For me that's another part of Bridge Day's charm actually. Bridge Day is more than a BASE jump. It's also a social/educational event. You only jump for a 6 hour period, the remainder of the weekend is meeting with old friends, making new friends, talking about jumps & gear, and just generally having a good time. I'm really looking forward to BD this year. Might just have to do a 2-way with Sinkster to see the look on his face when he exits. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CanuckInUSA 0 #13 July 12, 2004 I'm sure Bridge Day is a great time to be introduced to BASE and to meet many people from the BASE jumping community. But personally I think that the Perrine is a better location for our first 'X' number of BASE jumps. I mean what other bridge in the country is it legal to jump from 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The Perrine is not too tall and not too low and it does have a some what forgiving landing area (though it is still a BASE jump and is still dangerous). I still have so much to experience and learn, but I feel that there is no way in hell I would have my current BASE jumping experience if it wasn't for the Perrine. I am working my way towards jumping other (more difficult) objects, but it's so cool to learn things at the slightly safer comfines of the Perrine. Twin Falls and the Perrine rock!!! Oh and to the original poster of this thread. Make sure you've got your canopy control skills up to snuff before you try a BASE jump. There is some serious stuff out there ready to eat you alive and being able to control your canopy (at least for me) is the most important aspect of the sport. I'm sure some of the more experienced people would have other things to say, but I still feel that canopy control (outside of proper gear knowledge) is the key to having a chance at surviving the BASE environment. Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Faber 0 #14 July 18, 2004 QuoteI am fully aware that my view will be flamed - but I will stand by the fact that BD is a shit way to get into BASE................... I do agree to Mac that Its not the right place,but thats for the reasson that i think some people might cant take the pressure of thoussends of people watching one to jump off the first time,which means you might get a person jumping whith out really want to(in the end) HOWEVER,i think its the kind of events that is a great chance to skydivers to get "the smell of BASE",i do agree to Mac that it must be considdered like a try it if you like pack.However i think the point which some of you are missing is that Mac is conserned about the new jumpers after the event(in the same way after any other FJC),will the jumper need to find a mentor after that??and if so,should the mentor then take the person even as he has only 50ram air jumps?? Jason,you must not misunderstand this as i think you guys pull off a GREAT event,i think you make BASE a good thing for the public,and the fact that you can pull such an event up year after year,is just amasing Stay safe Stefan Faber Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
motherhucker 0 #15 July 20, 2004 QuoteI have semi-low jump numbers (100+) and am not current (but I will be this weekend weather permitting), but I am planning on attending Bridge Day to make a single BASE jump and then retire from BASE jumping. :) My 2 cents may appear somewhere above my post already, but I'm too lazy to read through all of it so... Low jump numbers+uncurrency=much higher probability for injury/death. IMO, It doesn't matter that it's a bridge. It doesn't matter that it's 850+ ft high. BASE jumping happens from the second your feet leave an object to the second you hit the ground...NOT only until your canopy opens. Look through BD archives--PLENTY of people have been injured/killed at NRGB. Any dumbshit can huck themselves off of something--but it takes a bit more skill to land yourself where you want, uninjured, among obstacles. In short, don't take ANY BASE jump lightly--make SURE you have enough experience under canopy to deal with the shit that can go wrong. IMHO, from your description, right now you DO NOT. But that's just me. BTW, 100 jumps may be more than 1, but don't kid yourself--100 jumps is not SEMI-low jump #'s--it is LOW jump #'s. Ask yourself WHY you want to make a BASE jump and then quit? Sounds like a bragging right thing to me...And if it is, then why not wait a year to be current and build up some canopy time? Do with this what you will--it's probably mostly bullshite anyhow. mh Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mnischalke 0 #16 July 20, 2004 Excellent advice! I finally ordered my BD 2003 video and got it last week. I've seen the Lemmings videos, but I didn't expect this new, nearly real-time dvd to be so loaded with dumbasses, skydiving rigs (with D-bags), tree snags, toggle hooks into ground and water, flareless landings and a whole baskin-robbins-flavor assortment of other "bullshite." I think I could actually hear a bone snap on the video. Very entertaining, yet loaded with cringe moments. Like I said, excellent advice. mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CanuckInUSA 0 #17 July 20, 2004 QuoteExcellent advice! I finally ordered my BD 2003 video and got it last week. I've seen the Lemmings videos, but I didn't expect this new, nearly real-time dvd to be so loaded with dumbasses, skydiving rigs (with D-bags), tree snags, toggle hooks into ground and water, flareless landings and a whole baskin-robbins-flavor assortment of other "bullshite." I think I could actually hear a bone snap on the video. Very entertaining, yet loaded with cringe moments. Like I said, excellent advice. Maybe you can't answer this question, but hopefully other can asnwer it. Is this dumbass Bridge Day skydiving footage you speak of the same footage as seen in the "Bridge Day Safety Video"? Or is this additional dumbass footage which took place last year? Also what are people's opinions about the over entertainment value of the Bridge Day 2003 DVD? Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Zennie 0 #18 July 20, 2004 QuoteIs this dumbass Bridge Day skydiving footage you speak of the same footage as seen in the "Bridge Day Safety Video"? Nope different videos. The safety video is sort of a "Best Of" of Will Forshay's "Lemmings Extremes", which was a Best & Worst of Bridge Day over the years. The safety video is sort of a "best of the best of", if you will. The video he's referring to is the footage from last year's Bridge Day. And yep, every year you get lots of botched exits and horrifying gear. The veterans will know better than me, but I get the sense that the gear has improved from years past. More folks seem to be using dedicated BASE gear.... even if only for that jump. As far as watchability goes... it is about a 3-4 hour long video, so it's not something you'd probably want to watch in one sitting... but I thought it was put together very well. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CanuckInUSA 0 #19 July 20, 2004 Thanks for the info Zennie. I just needed to know if it was the same or different dumbass footage. But now that I know I'd be seeing different footage, then I may look into picking up a copy (even though I've yet to set foot on the NRGB and unfortunately won't be there in '04 as well). Try not to worry about the things you have no control over Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Zennie 0 #20 July 20, 2004 QuoteI just needed to know if it was the same or different dumbass footage. DDDD (Different Dumbass, Different Day). Sorry, just couldn't resist. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mnischalke 0 #21 July 20, 2004 QuoteAs far as watchability goes... it is about a 3-4 hour long video, so it's not something you'd probably want to watch in one sitting... but I thought it was put together very well. Ummm, by the bottom of the 12-pack, I had finished it (even with a bunch of rewinds for my jumps and some other interesting stuff) in a sitting. Prolly wouldn't have if my last jump--a sweet little facing 2-way--wasn't at 2:40 sumpin. QuoteThe veterans will know better than me, but I get the sense that the gear has improved from years past. More folks seem to be using dedicated BASE gear.... even if only for that jump. Ya know, I have heard that too, but having only been there the past couple years, my first-hand knowledge is rather limited. Watch the video and figure out the percentage of spin-ups with d-bags in skydiving containers compared to the overall number of d-bag deployments. Seemed kinda high to me, but I was drunk. What do I know? Maybe skydiving rigs really are fine for BASE. After all, BD is only kinda BASE, right? mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sinkster 0 #22 July 20, 2004 It's better bragging rights to make the jump with less skydives. (less skydives = more badass) Actually, I'm planning do to it once because of the large risk increase involved with doing it over and over again at my experience level. BASE is pretty f*cking dangerous. I realize that, but I also believe that more skydives will only help me a small amount UNLESS I jump a canopy that is just like what I would be jumping off the bridge. Would I be wrong in saying that hp skydiving canopy time is like driving a dump truck to prepare for a formula 1 race? (or vice versa) Since I'm not willing to buy a new canopy just for one BASE jump where I can take a water landing, I'm not going to bother. I'm current again and now feel confident about the bridge after making a couple skydives. If I was to keep BASE jumping right after bridge day I would agree with you though. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Faber 0 #23 July 20, 2004 QuoteBASE is pretty f*cking dangerous. I realize that, but I also believe that more skydives will only help me a small amount UNLESS I jump a canopy that is just like what I would be jumping off the bridge. your first thourght are correct,so why dont you understand that learning how to handel a canopy can help you in an envioment were canopy skills really matter?? guess what i bother alot about this sport,which is why i cant stand the oppinions you just made.. sounds more like a dumb act than an bad ass act to me.. sorry for the flames,but i think your will jump for a wrong reasson,And if you end up hurt or even killed it will harm the sport i like,which means it would hurt me... Its not a rolercoaster ride were your all safe if you just do 1 time,that 1 jump can change your life for the rest of it,if you stay alive... Please guys,if you know that you just want to try it once,why then even do it? Just my 2£ Stay safe Stefan Faber Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mnischalke 0 #24 July 20, 2004 QuoteI'm current again and now feel confident about the bridge after making a couple skydives. Bwaaahahaaahahaaaa... Yeah, and the view from the exit point is JUST like the one you get from the door of an Otter. And the landing area: huge and grassy. Make sure your cypres is on. mike Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills--You know, like nunchuk skills, bow-hunting skills, computer-hacking skills. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Zennie 0 #25 July 20, 2004 Hey Jake, since I know you I'll subject you to a little less flameage, though my sentiments are in line with Mike & Faber. Dude, need I remind you about Nick's mishap last year? Yes, Bridge Day is a relatively safe BASE jump, by BASE jump standards, but it IS still a BASE jump. That means navigating to a fairly tight landing area, avoiding trees, rocks & such, dealing with messed up swirly winds & just generally landing in areas other than nicely manicured grass fields. Unless you plan on taking an intentional water landing, you really do need to continue to do some jumps and work on canopy skills. You don't need to buy another canopy. You can shoot accuracy, practice crosswind landings, etc with the one you have. Plus, if you can find a big enough container, I'll happily lend you my Sharpchuter so that you can get some practice in under a "big" F-111 canopy... they do fly differently. Plus you can practice flying & flaring the line mod... which is what you'll be doing at BD. Jake, do NOT underestimate the jump or the necessity for currency. Don't fall prey to the general American tendency of wanting something without putting in any effort to get it. - Z "Always be yourself... unless you suck." - Joss Whedon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
