Sky Diving
Articles / News
Date: December 12, 2007  

Grant Haney, Staff Reporter

Peering over the edge, wind slashing through your hair, feet dangling and your stomachempty with anxiety; yes, you are about to depart from a plane 18,000 feet above the ground. Monterey is becoming grounds for many extreme sports including the recent craze of skydiving. Even better, CSU Monterey Bay students can exercise the rush of this extreme sport right in their backyard. If you want to fly at the ground at speeds up to 120 miles per hour Marina can offer that thrill to any adrenaline junkie. Skydive Monterey Bay offers tandem jumping along with “California’s highest tandem jump” at 18,000 feet. CSUMB senior, Michael Leslie, made his first jump in 2004 and has been hooked ever since. While attending school, Leslie has made plenty of jumps to ease his mind from the monogamous college life. “There’s nothing more relaxing and euphoric than being weightless, explained Leslie. “At 18,000 feet I don’t see the door as an exit but rather an entrance.” For others, skydiving may just be a one time experience. 26-year-old Jason Simpson jumped in Marina and felt once was enough. “I was fine until they rolled up the plastic door of the plane,” said Simpson. “It was a rush and great experience, but I don’t know if I would do it again.” For some others, skydiving will never be attempted. “It’s not for me, I’ll stick to sports on the ground,” stated Human Communications senior Geoff Middlekauff. For more avid jumpers such as Leslie, seeing the rise of popularity is apparent. “I think people just want to do something wild and crazy in their life. Humans have always wanted to fly,” said Leslie. Leslie jumps quite frequently and recommends it to anyone. Leslie has made and witnessed enough jumps to see the thrill it brings to his self and others. While some people go up in hot air balloons, ride motorcycles or bungee jump, Leslie finds his high through the open sky. “Skydiving gives me peace and serenity. It makes me focused on the moment and it keeps me centered.” If you’re looking for a new way to achieve some thrills, look no farther. Skydive Monterey Bay is close and easy for anyone trying to achieve the ultimate rush. For information on diving, directions, prices, instructions and more, visit skydivemontereybay.com.