Blue Sky Ranch-Gardiner NY
Picture will be posted soon
The Blue Sky Ranch had the honor of participating in the world wide memorial jump on Sat, Aug 1, 1998, at 8:00pm to remember Sandy's spirit and life.
At 7:30pm, red super otter 40269, (Sandy liked that otter the best) took off and headed to 13,500 feet with picture perfect weather and a brilliant sun setting behind the Shawangunk mountains. After takeoff, someone shouted the traditional Ranch "Shawanga" followed by the whole load yelling, "Fly Baby Fly". As the 21 of us climbed to altitude, we all had some time to think back on Sandy's friendship and how she loved this sport. I haven't been in such a quiet Ranch otter in a long time.
11,000 feet and we're all ready to go, time hack and equipment checks. Last minute dirt dives from all and a final word from me about the the dive and about how we should not only remember Sandy, but all of our fallen comrades. With another "Shawanga", Bruce Chapman gave the pre jump ready set go and John turned in on jump run.
Over the DZ, 8:00pm, the doors opened, we climb out and Bam, out we go. 23 seconds later, the most perfect 20 way "S" you've ever seen forms over the Ranch. Tender Young Adams shooting the whole rool of film and swinging around for some sunset shots. I give the key and we change to dounut grips to form the "S" again with better lines. Out of altitude and break-off, cheers and tears from the crowd below and it's done.
That's it. We land , gather together for high fives and a hardy "Her" "Her" Ranch style and pop open some cold ones.
I had fun with this an hope everyone out there involved in a memorial jump did too.
"Blue Skies" and soft landings to all.
Guy Wright, manager Blue Sky Ranch