Joshua

If you want fun-loving, friendly, professional people, and a great DZ with plenty of emergency landing options; plus an aircraft that rocks--go to Salado (Skydiving Temple)! This place is what skydiving is all about and shows it. It's also relatively cheap for multiple jumps. These folks know how to do it right. I think that some of the older contributions mentioning the "small aircraft" should be edited out, as many other contributers have pointed out that Skydive Temple has a new aircraft, along with new management. Although it's no C-130 space-wise, the PAC-750XL is a fast climber, very comfortable, and easy to exit. It's also got a great sound system and a good pilot.

The owner/operator is a control freak who is hypercritical of her trainees. The flight manifests are disorganized, the training short and unsufficient, and the general vibe of the place is poor. The employees all seem glum and cynical. It is a long drive from any major city, and not worth it. Go to Salado! In my self defense (in response to the above contribution), I have to direct other readers to the jumper that had the same problem locating the DZ at TSC. I encountered a similar problem at Salado, but this time it was mutually agreed that most of the last jumpers exited far beyond the DZ. I was never "chewed out" for this at Salado, nor was I asked not to return. On the contrary, I receive regular emails inviting me to jump. I also was not banned from TSC, I merely listened to my recorded conversation with the owner several times, and decided that it was not the sort of training environment I needed or wanted. I would also like to point out that were I dangerous I would have at least fractured a major bone , or hurt another jumper. I have done neither, but know many experienced jumpers (instructors) who have. Apparently the "zero defect" only applies to trainees at TSC.

Hi Jeff, I'm Josh, and have a severely damaged lumbar spine from my Army service. Yeah, even though I'm forty now, my mom hates the fact that I still skydive. I have never felt pain in my back from civilian skydiving because I have always used a good PLF when I land (and don't jump at night at 800 feet with 350 pounds of gear!). I only landed once on my feet because it was required for the Class A USPA license. "Civvie" chutes give you nice, soft landings, the free fall is just plain fun, and doesn't hurt a bit either. The danger of hurting your back could happen in your own bathtub--a mistake. Just carefully think about your landings, practice, practice, practice PLFs, plan a good landing, use what you've got between your ears, and you'll be fine. Just remember, like downhill skiing, you're moving really fast, have other people and obstacles to avoid, and always need to have an alternate plan (like most drivers ought to). Blue Skies! I love the freedom, mental energy, and concentration that go into skydiving. I also enjoy the people I meet at skydiving centers, especially single women.