mlefebvre

Good times! This photo was taken at California City in 1982 above the Mohave Desert. My Security Crossbow had a PC MK IV main and a 26' navy Conical reserve. The MLW was too long and the 65 pound ill-fitting rig would often flop around putting me on my back. I eventually upgraded (??) to a Handbury rig with an XL Cloud. (LOL)

Wow Andrew, thank you for such a thoughtful topic. For me, it's a matter of balance. I have been an active skydiver for 39 years and have maintained a healthy work/life balance throughout. The secret (for me) has been to maintain and nurture several passions in my life; family, running, cycling, skydiving and a really interesting career. Thus, when one or more passion is not available, I place my intentions on those that are. The problem with some skydivers (and other individuals that put all their eggs in one basket) is that outside of skydiving, they have no other passions. Consequently, when injured, weathered out or unable to jump, these individuals become surly and depressed. Variety is the spice of life. Sadly, you will not become a world champion with this broad view. However, when the clouds roll in you'll likely have an exciting "plan B" already on tap. As I write this note, I'm perched at 11,000' MSL at one of the largest telescopes in the world. Alas, there will be no aircraft landing at the observatory for "load 1". Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to a hypoxic trail run shortly after lunch. Depressed? No way! Full of gratitude and lots of options! Get some.

Well, after more than 30 consecutive years in the sport and owning eight different rigs; (one Crossbow, one Rapid Transit, two Vectors, one Talon, one Talon II and two Javelin Odysseys), I thought it was high time to buy a Mirage G4 and find out for myself why this manufacturer has attracted such a fan fare. I was measured (twice) by Bonnie at Gravity Gear in San Diego, plunked down a big fat pile of crisp $100 bills and watched her hit "send" on the online order form. SIx weeks and four days later a new M0 rig showed up. We popped a Cypres II, Optimum 126 and Sabre2 135 into the container and then I put it on. My first impression was, "holy sh@!" this rig fits PERFECT! I mean of all my rigs, none of them ever fit me this good! Everything on the G4 was a custom fit; the main lift web, the leg and chest straps were all made for moi! The construction of this rig is awesome; no minor detail is overlooked. Sure it's possible to make another rig less expensive (and just as reliable), but I have to say there is something very gratifying about the quality of this rig. It feels so good when you are in the air and under canopy. Mirage is truly the "Cadillac of Rigs", bar none!