AggieDave 6 #51 May 26, 2006 Quote That's a great idea, but i think that i'll wait a bit to try some crew. Not actual CReW, just fly relative to your coach, play follow the leader, etc. Its not actual CReW its just flying relative.--"When I die, may I be surrounded by scattered chrome and burning gasoline." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #52 May 26, 2006 QuoteNot actual CReW, just fly relative to your coach, play follow the leader, etc. Its not actual CReW its just flying relative. Ah, I understand. Trust me, I'm not mentally ready for that at all. I am just trying to not be scared by myself under canopy right now. I'll eventually try your idea, but I really want to work with baby steps. Thanks! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #53 May 26, 2006 QuoteI think it is very reasonable that Rosa didn't want to take downsizing advice from a stranger over the internet. And to Rosa. If canopy control is what is worrying you, I think the solution is to do lots of hop and pops. Maybe you can get out to the DZ on some quieter days when there will be less canopy traffic. Try to arrive early in the morning on a weekday and get on the first load. Winds should be more calm at that time of day. The more stressful variables you can eliminate (turbulent winds, canopy traffic, rushed atmosphere, people watching) the more you can focus on building your confidence under canopy. Don't push yourself and jump when the environment isn't perfect for you. If the winds have you a little nervous, don't jump. You don't need to have a minor landing issue that ruins your confidence. If you're not feeling confident/calm, you won't perform as well. Oh.. and practice deliberate breathing under canopy. When I get a little hyped up from a zoo dive or wild opening I make sure that I focus on calming down under canopy by taking deep breaths. And then I give myself a pep talk. I hope this was the sort of advice you were looking for.. I didn't read the whole thread OK, this is as far as I could get w/out posting a reply But, I'm glad I waited this long b/c Karen said it for me I would DEFINITELY trust your coach, over my two cents--but I will add it anyways When I started jumping I didn't care much for being under canopy--It didn't scare me so much as I never felt much in control of it. I paid close attention to all the advice, etc. practiced up high doing this and that. FINALLY when I downsized my problems were solved---I'm only at a 1:1 ratio, mind you, but before my canopy was HUGE. My smaller size was much easier for me to control & really fly. I felt 100% better about flying my canopy and I felt so much more in control of it. I even FINALLY started landing in the peas and standing up my landings---this was at about 70 jumps Let me put it this way--I was flying a stable head-down before I was consitantly landing my canopy where I wanted to Also, congrats on the custom-fit rig coming up. It will make a HUGE difference, I promise you. SO MUCH more comfortable (and safe)!Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #54 May 26, 2006 Quoteit was the whole my coach is jt thing that irked me Why would that irk you? A lot of the great swoopers/canopy flyers/skydivers teach and they teach a lot of different skydivers Though Rosa and I have been known to take each other wrong, I didn't take it as a name-dropping thing--more of a pertinent information thing.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #55 May 26, 2006 QuoteI know what you are feeling. Canopy flight has always been the hardest part of skydiving for me. Like you, I took a canopy course and it really did wonders for me - learning the actual physics of what the wing does and what I am doing to it. Thanks Nita! Yes, I feel much better taking canopy classes. I've actually had several (three) canopy coaches/classes in the past, and they've all been wonderful. Unfortunately, I broke my ankle, while taking a canopy course a couple of years ago. The mental aspect is the problem right now. One another note, I often see people post about taking Scott Miller's class or naming whomever their coaches are, so I don't see the problem posting my canopy coach's name. (The Tizzle) I am happy with Jonathon and hope to continue to be coached by him for as long as possible. I know that I've improved everything, even the mental part, since being coached by him. I don't hesitate to name Jon, and I would recommend him to ANYONE for ANY kind of canopy coaching. I am quite blown away with how much his coaching has already helped me. I didn't mean for my post to be offensive, and anyone who knows me, knows that. Nita~ See you soon, girlie! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #56 May 26, 2006 Ah, thank you, Carrie. That is exactly the case. Oh, and I know that we haven't understood each other online in the past, but I'm sure that it would be quite different in person. Peace, girl! (Bye, I have to go to the DZ, now!) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #57 May 26, 2006 Quote I took a canopy course and it really did wonders for me - learning the actual physics of what the wing does and what I am doing to it. While I haven't taken a course, I've had my own personal freeflyer/swooper on nearly every jump (my hunny) and he's very detail-oriented when talking about skydiving (though doesn't seem to be in much anything else). He never made me feel silly for not being a natural at canopy flying. I can't say I even fully understand the aerodynamics of a canopy, but everything you pointed out is right on the mark---having that knowledge really helped me to fly better and feel more comfortable with it. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #58 May 26, 2006 QuoteThe mental aspect is the problem right now. I hate to quote Nike, but "Just Do It" Focus. Relax (as much as possible). And know that you've taken all the proper precautions---you've been coached, you've been through your steps, you've gone though them before the jump, you know you are a success to whatever you want to put your mind to. Once under canopy continue to focus just on what you're doing/your goal, and nothing else. And if you believe in God, pray I've prayed on the ride to altitude on every jump I've ever made. After I've said my prayer, I'm reminded that not only am I being watched over, but I'm capable. I've always practiced cognitive behavior---training your brain to react a certain way---even if it's different than how you would have naturally reacted previously (sometimes our natural reactions are not the best/safest). You do this by constant repetitive thinking/practice. A lot of great skydivers will agree that some of their best practice is the kind they do in their minds before the jump---going through it in their head. That in itself, will greatly help your confidence. Hope that helps.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites kbordson 8 #59 May 27, 2006 QuoteI think thats exactly what she meant Actually Ro is not like that at all. She is a wonderful spirit who will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." She has a kind soul and doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. But I see how you may have misunderstood that with her mentioning who her coach is, not that she shouldn't have, especially considering who he is (and the fact that he seems like a great guy as well as an amazing coach for her) .... The problem with the internet is that it's so easy to misunderstand word and intent. I don't think that Rosa was looking for advice on this thread as opposed to just wanting to vent and express fear. (And part of that might also be a male/female communication thing). But... I just wanted to stand up and try to clear the board of her being just a "snobby name dropper" type. (and give her whatever support she might be needing) Karen Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lilDevil 2 #60 May 27, 2006 I know just how you feel, Ive been down for 6 weeks now.``````````````````````````````````` " Cant keep a good woman down " Angels have wings, but devils can fly ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Squeak 17 #61 May 28, 2006 So did ya jump Rosa?? Details girl DetailsYou are not now, nor will you ever be, good enough to not die in this sport (Sparky) My Life ROCKS! How's yours doing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #62 May 28, 2006 Quotewho will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." ... doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. Taking Rosa out of the equation, this statement (if made about anyone boy or girl, big/small, popular/not) bothers me. It implies one with 130 jumps is a "no-one". And also implies that one must be in a superior postion if they feel they have the option of not making another feel inferior. And it possibly implies other states are "not as cool" as others where the bigger names jump. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites kbordson 8 #63 May 28, 2006 I wasn't trying to say that I was inferior to Jonathan or that the "popular girls" are better than the geeks or even anything about the star bellied sneeches, that's a whole different discussion (probably one for SC) ... just that Rosa is NOT like that and some of the comments made inference to the fact that her name dropping was snobby. I was just trying to clear that up... she is not a snob. She just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. That's all. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #64 May 28, 2006 No worries. I figured that and actually first read your post yesterday and didn't respond for that reason. Upon re-reading it this morning though, I felt the need to speak up. B/c frankly it's SUCH a small community, skydiving. And 130 jumps is FAR more than most anyone else in the world. I think that counts for a lot. And for the record, I am quite snobby by comparison to a lot of skydivers. But I WILL talk to, joke, hang out with, just about anyone. The two are not mutually exclusive. And people who are kind on the inside don't always reflect that outwardly and vice versa. The later I call fake. Unfortunately one can only go by what they experience/see on the outside to make their inferences. And I agree 110% with your point as I noted earlier that I really did not think Rosa's comment was snobby or ill-meaning or anything of a negative nature. It's pertinant to the conversation. She's obvoiusly getting great coaching, what she wanted/wants is advice on the mental aspect. I gave that, too, so my work here is done Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites dgskydive 0 #65 May 28, 2006 Ro, You can do this. We know you have the flying skills. YOu have had those for a long time now. Canopy has been your "pain in the ass" from day one. You have Jonathon there to help and he will give you the information you need. You have to gain your own confidence. You will get passed this. Just BE CONFIDENT. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? BTFU Haters. IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Is that an old picture of you and Steve?Dom Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Guest 1010 #66 May 28, 2006 >I might have gear for this weekend that is almost a decent fit, but I feel so anxious, still. What is wrong with me??? Not a darn thing. I don't think you are being fair to yourself in trying to eliminate gear-fear if using gear that doesn't fit properly. After my first 10-12 jumps I was on big canopies with large harnesses (falling-out-of-the-gear fear), but the instructors said there was no way the harness would fall off. Fine. Still, it became unenjoyable. Slowed my jumping down quite a bit. And I'm sure that gear fit me A LOT better than your situation. Finally jumped a smaller rig that I could get tight and the sport was fun again. This is a gear sport and a mental sport above all else. I guess I disagree with your premise of separating the two - bad gear and great mental won't save you, bad mental and great gear won't save you either. Waiting for gear that fits ... not a bad thing IMHO. newbie .02 You can have it good, fast, or cheap: pick two. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tbrown 26 #67 May 28, 2006 We know you have the flying skills. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Or the 4 Way she did with me, Julia, and David yesterday, she was just great! And David & I are both rather big guys, but the girls wore some weights and it was all good. Rosa's got a lot more tunnel time than a lot of us have in the air and I can tell you it's paid off nicely. As for the JT non-issue, it's just that here in So. Cal we're fortunate to have a number of world class skydivers among the locals, I think the weather and availability of large year 'round dropzones might have something to do with it ? If I'm not mistaken, Jonathan's been around since he was a newbie fresh off AFF, he just made a ton of jumps and made a well deserved name for himself. As an instructor, he's just a terrific guy who works one on one with anybody, even an old fart like me. There are any number of us who have been fortunate to benefit from canopy courses offered by the likes of Jonathan, JC, and others. But things really aren't the same since Dominic left town.... Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #68 May 29, 2006 QuoteShe just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. Thank you, Karen. Perhaps, it's because we know each other, that you did understand exactly what I was feeling (fear/frustration) and what I need (to vent and get support) online. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you've written. It helps so much. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Squeak 17 #69 May 29, 2006 QuoteQuoteShe just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. Thank you, Karen. Perhaps, it's because we know each other, that you did understand exactly what I was feeling (fear/frustration) and what I need (to vent and get support) online. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you've written. It helps so much. Enough of all that crap, did ya jump..was it great..details girlYou are not now, nor will you ever be, good enough to not die in this sport (Sparky) My Life ROCKS! How's yours doing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #70 May 29, 2006 QuoteIF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! You're an awesome skydiver, Dom. I've always appreciated and enjoyed flying with you and with anyone, who would fly with me or coach me. QuoteIs that an old picture of you and Steve? Yes, that photo was taken on one of the last days that I had flown, prior to stopping. I could tell you who else was on that jump with us, but it would be name dropping, again. Thanks for your post, Dom. You've always been so supportive and inspiring. Take care, my dear! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #71 May 29, 2006 QuoteOr the 4 Way she did with me, Julia, and David yesterday, she was just great! Thank you, Tom, for jumping with me, yesterday. It was fun. To answer Squeak, yes, I did one jump with my friend's rig, which is much smaller than the DZ ones. It still is a bit worrisome. I had to readjust a leg strap that had fallen mid-thigh, during the skydive, right after our first zig-zag marquis. I was unhappy with my landing, as well. The winds were a bit high for me on that main, so I stopped jumping after that one jump. I am going to go back to the DZ at the end of this week, after my new-to-me used rig gets a repack and a cypres installed. The rig, which arrived on Friday, is used, but it's smaller than the others. I will use this rig, untll I can order (in the next month or so due to finances) a custom one made for myself (over the next three months.) Thanks, everyone! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites bob.dino 1 #72 May 29, 2006 A couple of quotes I found over the weekend: QuoteYou gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' Eleanor Roosevelt You must do the things you think you cannot do. Eleanor Roosevelt Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites sartre 0 #73 May 29, 2006 I have been following your thread all weekend with great interest. And now it's eerie that your major fear is a poor-fitting rig, and now a woman in Ohio has died from falling out of one. I'm so glad you're being cautious! Next weekend is my first tandem jump, and I am trying to get as much info as I can in order to not be spooked by the Ohio accident. But I'm a little heeby-jeebied by the occurrence after having spent the weekend reading about the importance of a properly adjusted rig. You better believe I will (quietly) be bringing up my concerns at the DZ next weekend. PS I'm not anywhere as tiny as you nor as large as is being reported the victim was. I hope this makes it more likely I'll be just fine. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites swedishcelt 0 #74 May 29, 2006 You haven't jumped yet? Most tandem instructors are so incredibly careful that I wouldn't worry about it at all. I guarantee they will have heard of the incident too and be even more vigilant on gear checks. Just enjoy the jump. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites sartre 0 #75 May 29, 2006 I plan to. I've been posting on&off all day and you're the person to respond to any of them. I was beginning to think I was invisible! Thanks for the reassurance. There's no way I'm not going to do it! I can't wait. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Prev 1 2 3 4 Next Page 3 of 4 Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. Display as a link instead × Your previous content has been restored. Clear editor × You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL. Insert image from URL × Desktop Tablet Phone Submit Reply 0
PLFXpert 0 #53 May 26, 2006 QuoteI think it is very reasonable that Rosa didn't want to take downsizing advice from a stranger over the internet. And to Rosa. If canopy control is what is worrying you, I think the solution is to do lots of hop and pops. Maybe you can get out to the DZ on some quieter days when there will be less canopy traffic. Try to arrive early in the morning on a weekday and get on the first load. Winds should be more calm at that time of day. The more stressful variables you can eliminate (turbulent winds, canopy traffic, rushed atmosphere, people watching) the more you can focus on building your confidence under canopy. Don't push yourself and jump when the environment isn't perfect for you. If the winds have you a little nervous, don't jump. You don't need to have a minor landing issue that ruins your confidence. If you're not feeling confident/calm, you won't perform as well. Oh.. and practice deliberate breathing under canopy. When I get a little hyped up from a zoo dive or wild opening I make sure that I focus on calming down under canopy by taking deep breaths. And then I give myself a pep talk. I hope this was the sort of advice you were looking for.. I didn't read the whole thread OK, this is as far as I could get w/out posting a reply But, I'm glad I waited this long b/c Karen said it for me I would DEFINITELY trust your coach, over my two cents--but I will add it anyways When I started jumping I didn't care much for being under canopy--It didn't scare me so much as I never felt much in control of it. I paid close attention to all the advice, etc. practiced up high doing this and that. FINALLY when I downsized my problems were solved---I'm only at a 1:1 ratio, mind you, but before my canopy was HUGE. My smaller size was much easier for me to control & really fly. I felt 100% better about flying my canopy and I felt so much more in control of it. I even FINALLY started landing in the peas and standing up my landings---this was at about 70 jumps Let me put it this way--I was flying a stable head-down before I was consitantly landing my canopy where I wanted to Also, congrats on the custom-fit rig coming up. It will make a HUGE difference, I promise you. SO MUCH more comfortable (and safe)!Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #54 May 26, 2006 Quoteit was the whole my coach is jt thing that irked me Why would that irk you? A lot of the great swoopers/canopy flyers/skydivers teach and they teach a lot of different skydivers Though Rosa and I have been known to take each other wrong, I didn't take it as a name-dropping thing--more of a pertinent information thing.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #55 May 26, 2006 QuoteI know what you are feeling. Canopy flight has always been the hardest part of skydiving for me. Like you, I took a canopy course and it really did wonders for me - learning the actual physics of what the wing does and what I am doing to it. Thanks Nita! Yes, I feel much better taking canopy classes. I've actually had several (three) canopy coaches/classes in the past, and they've all been wonderful. Unfortunately, I broke my ankle, while taking a canopy course a couple of years ago. The mental aspect is the problem right now. One another note, I often see people post about taking Scott Miller's class or naming whomever their coaches are, so I don't see the problem posting my canopy coach's name. (The Tizzle) I am happy with Jonathon and hope to continue to be coached by him for as long as possible. I know that I've improved everything, even the mental part, since being coached by him. I don't hesitate to name Jon, and I would recommend him to ANYONE for ANY kind of canopy coaching. I am quite blown away with how much his coaching has already helped me. I didn't mean for my post to be offensive, and anyone who knows me, knows that. Nita~ See you soon, girlie! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites VanillaSkyGirl 6 #56 May 26, 2006 Ah, thank you, Carrie. That is exactly the case. Oh, and I know that we haven't understood each other online in the past, but I'm sure that it would be quite different in person. Peace, girl! (Bye, I have to go to the DZ, now!) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #57 May 26, 2006 Quote I took a canopy course and it really did wonders for me - learning the actual physics of what the wing does and what I am doing to it. While I haven't taken a course, I've had my own personal freeflyer/swooper on nearly every jump (my hunny) and he's very detail-oriented when talking about skydiving (though doesn't seem to be in much anything else). He never made me feel silly for not being a natural at canopy flying. I can't say I even fully understand the aerodynamics of a canopy, but everything you pointed out is right on the mark---having that knowledge really helped me to fly better and feel more comfortable with it. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #58 May 26, 2006 QuoteThe mental aspect is the problem right now. I hate to quote Nike, but "Just Do It" Focus. Relax (as much as possible). And know that you've taken all the proper precautions---you've been coached, you've been through your steps, you've gone though them before the jump, you know you are a success to whatever you want to put your mind to. Once under canopy continue to focus just on what you're doing/your goal, and nothing else. And if you believe in God, pray I've prayed on the ride to altitude on every jump I've ever made. After I've said my prayer, I'm reminded that not only am I being watched over, but I'm capable. I've always practiced cognitive behavior---training your brain to react a certain way---even if it's different than how you would have naturally reacted previously (sometimes our natural reactions are not the best/safest). You do this by constant repetitive thinking/practice. A lot of great skydivers will agree that some of their best practice is the kind they do in their minds before the jump---going through it in their head. That in itself, will greatly help your confidence. Hope that helps.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites kbordson 8 #59 May 27, 2006 QuoteI think thats exactly what she meant Actually Ro is not like that at all. She is a wonderful spirit who will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." She has a kind soul and doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. But I see how you may have misunderstood that with her mentioning who her coach is, not that she shouldn't have, especially considering who he is (and the fact that he seems like a great guy as well as an amazing coach for her) .... The problem with the internet is that it's so easy to misunderstand word and intent. I don't think that Rosa was looking for advice on this thread as opposed to just wanting to vent and express fear. (And part of that might also be a male/female communication thing). But... I just wanted to stand up and try to clear the board of her being just a "snobby name dropper" type. (and give her whatever support she might be needing) Karen Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lilDevil 2 #60 May 27, 2006 I know just how you feel, Ive been down for 6 weeks now.``````````````````````````````````` " Cant keep a good woman down " Angels have wings, but devils can fly ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Squeak 17 #61 May 28, 2006 So did ya jump Rosa?? Details girl DetailsYou are not now, nor will you ever be, good enough to not die in this sport (Sparky) My Life ROCKS! How's yours doing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #62 May 28, 2006 Quotewho will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." ... doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. Taking Rosa out of the equation, this statement (if made about anyone boy or girl, big/small, popular/not) bothers me. It implies one with 130 jumps is a "no-one". And also implies that one must be in a superior postion if they feel they have the option of not making another feel inferior. And it possibly implies other states are "not as cool" as others where the bigger names jump. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites kbordson 8 #63 May 28, 2006 I wasn't trying to say that I was inferior to Jonathan or that the "popular girls" are better than the geeks or even anything about the star bellied sneeches, that's a whole different discussion (probably one for SC) ... just that Rosa is NOT like that and some of the comments made inference to the fact that her name dropping was snobby. I was just trying to clear that up... she is not a snob. She just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. That's all. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #64 May 28, 2006 No worries. I figured that and actually first read your post yesterday and didn't respond for that reason. Upon re-reading it this morning though, I felt the need to speak up. B/c frankly it's SUCH a small community, skydiving. And 130 jumps is FAR more than most anyone else in the world. I think that counts for a lot. And for the record, I am quite snobby by comparison to a lot of skydivers. But I WILL talk to, joke, hang out with, just about anyone. The two are not mutually exclusive. And people who are kind on the inside don't always reflect that outwardly and vice versa. The later I call fake. Unfortunately one can only go by what they experience/see on the outside to make their inferences. And I agree 110% with your point as I noted earlier that I really did not think Rosa's comment was snobby or ill-meaning or anything of a negative nature. It's pertinant to the conversation. She's obvoiusly getting great coaching, what she wanted/wants is advice on the mental aspect. I gave that, too, so my work here is done Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites dgskydive 0 #65 May 28, 2006 Ro, You can do this. We know you have the flying skills. YOu have had those for a long time now. Canopy has been your "pain in the ass" from day one. You have Jonathon there to help and he will give you the information you need. You have to gain your own confidence. You will get passed this. Just BE CONFIDENT. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? BTFU Haters. IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Is that an old picture of you and Steve?Dom Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Guest 1010 #66 May 28, 2006 >I might have gear for this weekend that is almost a decent fit, but I feel so anxious, still. What is wrong with me??? Not a darn thing. I don't think you are being fair to yourself in trying to eliminate gear-fear if using gear that doesn't fit properly. After my first 10-12 jumps I was on big canopies with large harnesses (falling-out-of-the-gear fear), but the instructors said there was no way the harness would fall off. Fine. Still, it became unenjoyable. Slowed my jumping down quite a bit. And I'm sure that gear fit me A LOT better than your situation. Finally jumped a smaller rig that I could get tight and the sport was fun again. This is a gear sport and a mental sport above all else. I guess I disagree with your premise of separating the two - bad gear and great mental won't save you, bad mental and great gear won't save you either. Waiting for gear that fits ... not a bad thing IMHO. newbie .02 You can have it good, fast, or cheap: pick two. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tbrown 26 #67 May 28, 2006 We know you have the flying skills. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Or the 4 Way she did with me, Julia, and David yesterday, she was just great! And David & I are both rather big guys, but the girls wore some weights and it was all good. Rosa's got a lot more tunnel time than a lot of us have in the air and I can tell you it's paid off nicely. As for the JT non-issue, it's just that here in So. Cal we're fortunate to have a number of world class skydivers among the locals, I think the weather and availability of large year 'round dropzones might have something to do with it ? If I'm not mistaken, Jonathan's been around since he was a newbie fresh off AFF, he just made a ton of jumps and made a well deserved name for himself. As an instructor, he's just a terrific guy who works one on one with anybody, even an old fart like me. There are any number of us who have been fortunate to benefit from canopy courses offered by the likes of Jonathan, JC, and others. But things really aren't the same since Dominic left town.... Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #56 May 26, 2006 Ah, thank you, Carrie. That is exactly the case. Oh, and I know that we haven't understood each other online in the past, but I'm sure that it would be quite different in person. Peace, girl! (Bye, I have to go to the DZ, now!) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #57 May 26, 2006 Quote I took a canopy course and it really did wonders for me - learning the actual physics of what the wing does and what I am doing to it. While I haven't taken a course, I've had my own personal freeflyer/swooper on nearly every jump (my hunny) and he's very detail-oriented when talking about skydiving (though doesn't seem to be in much anything else). He never made me feel silly for not being a natural at canopy flying. I can't say I even fully understand the aerodynamics of a canopy, but everything you pointed out is right on the mark---having that knowledge really helped me to fly better and feel more comfortable with it. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #58 May 26, 2006 QuoteThe mental aspect is the problem right now. I hate to quote Nike, but "Just Do It" Focus. Relax (as much as possible). And know that you've taken all the proper precautions---you've been coached, you've been through your steps, you've gone though them before the jump, you know you are a success to whatever you want to put your mind to. Once under canopy continue to focus just on what you're doing/your goal, and nothing else. And if you believe in God, pray I've prayed on the ride to altitude on every jump I've ever made. After I've said my prayer, I'm reminded that not only am I being watched over, but I'm capable. I've always practiced cognitive behavior---training your brain to react a certain way---even if it's different than how you would have naturally reacted previously (sometimes our natural reactions are not the best/safest). You do this by constant repetitive thinking/practice. A lot of great skydivers will agree that some of their best practice is the kind they do in their minds before the jump---going through it in their head. That in itself, will greatly help your confidence. Hope that helps.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kbordson 8 #59 May 27, 2006 QuoteI think thats exactly what she meant Actually Ro is not like that at all. She is a wonderful spirit who will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." She has a kind soul and doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. But I see how you may have misunderstood that with her mentioning who her coach is, not that she shouldn't have, especially considering who he is (and the fact that he seems like a great guy as well as an amazing coach for her) .... The problem with the internet is that it's so easy to misunderstand word and intent. I don't think that Rosa was looking for advice on this thread as opposed to just wanting to vent and express fear. (And part of that might also be a male/female communication thing). But... I just wanted to stand up and try to clear the board of her being just a "snobby name dropper" type. (and give her whatever support she might be needing) Karen Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lilDevil 2 #60 May 27, 2006 I know just how you feel, Ive been down for 6 weeks now.``````````````````````````````````` " Cant keep a good woman down " Angels have wings, but devils can fly ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Squeak 17 #61 May 28, 2006 So did ya jump Rosa?? Details girl DetailsYou are not now, nor will you ever be, good enough to not die in this sport (Sparky) My Life ROCKS! How's yours doing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #62 May 28, 2006 Quotewho will hang with a lil 130 jump number no-one from out of state as comfortably as with "The Big Names." ... doesn't try to bring others down or make them feel inferior. Taking Rosa out of the equation, this statement (if made about anyone boy or girl, big/small, popular/not) bothers me. It implies one with 130 jumps is a "no-one". And also implies that one must be in a superior postion if they feel they have the option of not making another feel inferior. And it possibly implies other states are "not as cool" as others where the bigger names jump. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kbordson 8 #63 May 28, 2006 I wasn't trying to say that I was inferior to Jonathan or that the "popular girls" are better than the geeks or even anything about the star bellied sneeches, that's a whole different discussion (probably one for SC) ... just that Rosa is NOT like that and some of the comments made inference to the fact that her name dropping was snobby. I was just trying to clear that up... she is not a snob. She just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. That's all. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #64 May 28, 2006 No worries. I figured that and actually first read your post yesterday and didn't respond for that reason. Upon re-reading it this morning though, I felt the need to speak up. B/c frankly it's SUCH a small community, skydiving. And 130 jumps is FAR more than most anyone else in the world. I think that counts for a lot. And for the record, I am quite snobby by comparison to a lot of skydivers. But I WILL talk to, joke, hang out with, just about anyone. The two are not mutually exclusive. And people who are kind on the inside don't always reflect that outwardly and vice versa. The later I call fake. Unfortunately one can only go by what they experience/see on the outside to make their inferences. And I agree 110% with your point as I noted earlier that I really did not think Rosa's comment was snobby or ill-meaning or anything of a negative nature. It's pertinant to the conversation. She's obvoiusly getting great coaching, what she wanted/wants is advice on the mental aspect. I gave that, too, so my work here is done Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dgskydive 0 #65 May 28, 2006 Ro, You can do this. We know you have the flying skills. YOu have had those for a long time now. Canopy has been your "pain in the ass" from day one. You have Jonathon there to help and he will give you the information you need. You have to gain your own confidence. You will get passed this. Just BE CONFIDENT. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? BTFU Haters. IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Is that an old picture of you and Steve?Dom Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest 1010 #66 May 28, 2006 >I might have gear for this weekend that is almost a decent fit, but I feel so anxious, still. What is wrong with me??? Not a darn thing. I don't think you are being fair to yourself in trying to eliminate gear-fear if using gear that doesn't fit properly. After my first 10-12 jumps I was on big canopies with large harnesses (falling-out-of-the-gear fear), but the instructors said there was no way the harness would fall off. Fine. Still, it became unenjoyable. Slowed my jumping down quite a bit. And I'm sure that gear fit me A LOT better than your situation. Finally jumped a smaller rig that I could get tight and the sport was fun again. This is a gear sport and a mental sport above all else. I guess I disagree with your premise of separating the two - bad gear and great mental won't save you, bad mental and great gear won't save you either. Waiting for gear that fits ... not a bad thing IMHO. newbie .02 You can have it good, fast, or cheap: pick two. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tbrown 26 #67 May 28, 2006 We know you have the flying skills. FOr the record! Rosa is not a name dropper. She happens to be very good friends with JT and why shouldn't she be proud to have him coach her under canopy? IF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! Or the 4 Way she did with me, Julia, and David yesterday, she was just great! And David & I are both rather big guys, but the girls wore some weights and it was all good. Rosa's got a lot more tunnel time than a lot of us have in the air and I can tell you it's paid off nicely. As for the JT non-issue, it's just that here in So. Cal we're fortunate to have a number of world class skydivers among the locals, I think the weather and availability of large year 'round dropzones might have something to do with it ? If I'm not mistaken, Jonathan's been around since he was a newbie fresh off AFF, he just made a ton of jumps and made a well deserved name for himself. As an instructor, he's just a terrific guy who works one on one with anybody, even an old fart like me. There are any number of us who have been fortunate to benefit from canopy courses offered by the likes of Jonathan, JC, and others. But things really aren't the same since Dominic left town.... Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #68 May 29, 2006 QuoteShe just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. Thank you, Karen. Perhaps, it's because we know each other, that you did understand exactly what I was feeling (fear/frustration) and what I need (to vent and get support) online. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you've written. It helps so much. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Squeak 17 #69 May 29, 2006 QuoteQuoteShe just was venting fear and frustration (in my opinion).... and I wanted to try to help others understand that. Thank you, Karen. Perhaps, it's because we know each other, that you did understand exactly what I was feeling (fear/frustration) and what I need (to vent and get support) online. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you've written. It helps so much. Enough of all that crap, did ya jump..was it great..details girlYou are not now, nor will you ever be, good enough to not die in this sport (Sparky) My Life ROCKS! How's yours doing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #70 May 29, 2006 QuoteIF she was really a name dropper, she would have bragged about how many hours of coached tunnel time she has with me! You're an awesome skydiver, Dom. I've always appreciated and enjoyed flying with you and with anyone, who would fly with me or coach me. QuoteIs that an old picture of you and Steve? Yes, that photo was taken on one of the last days that I had flown, prior to stopping. I could tell you who else was on that jump with us, but it would be name dropping, again. Thanks for your post, Dom. You've always been so supportive and inspiring. Take care, my dear! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VanillaSkyGirl 6 #71 May 29, 2006 QuoteOr the 4 Way she did with me, Julia, and David yesterday, she was just great! Thank you, Tom, for jumping with me, yesterday. It was fun. To answer Squeak, yes, I did one jump with my friend's rig, which is much smaller than the DZ ones. It still is a bit worrisome. I had to readjust a leg strap that had fallen mid-thigh, during the skydive, right after our first zig-zag marquis. I was unhappy with my landing, as well. The winds were a bit high for me on that main, so I stopped jumping after that one jump. I am going to go back to the DZ at the end of this week, after my new-to-me used rig gets a repack and a cypres installed. The rig, which arrived on Friday, is used, but it's smaller than the others. I will use this rig, untll I can order (in the next month or so due to finances) a custom one made for myself (over the next three months.) Thanks, everyone! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bob.dino 1 #72 May 29, 2006 A couple of quotes I found over the weekend: QuoteYou gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' Eleanor Roosevelt You must do the things you think you cannot do. Eleanor Roosevelt Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sartre 0 #73 May 29, 2006 I have been following your thread all weekend with great interest. And now it's eerie that your major fear is a poor-fitting rig, and now a woman in Ohio has died from falling out of one. I'm so glad you're being cautious! Next weekend is my first tandem jump, and I am trying to get as much info as I can in order to not be spooked by the Ohio accident. But I'm a little heeby-jeebied by the occurrence after having spent the weekend reading about the importance of a properly adjusted rig. You better believe I will (quietly) be bringing up my concerns at the DZ next weekend. PS I'm not anywhere as tiny as you nor as large as is being reported the victim was. I hope this makes it more likely I'll be just fine. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
swedishcelt 0 #74 May 29, 2006 You haven't jumped yet? Most tandem instructors are so incredibly careful that I wouldn't worry about it at all. I guarantee they will have heard of the incident too and be even more vigilant on gear checks. Just enjoy the jump. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sartre 0 #75 May 29, 2006 I plan to. I've been posting on&off all day and you're the person to respond to any of them. I was beginning to think I was invisible! Thanks for the reassurance. There's no way I'm not going to do it! I can't wait. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
