As Matt Fry puts it, “One of the most impressive regional records I’ve ever seen.” South America makes history with a 54-way head-down formation in Brazil.
Tatui is a quiet town in Brazil that most people have never heard of. But on June 2nd, 60 vertical flyers convened there to set the first Head-Down South American Open Continental Record. Representatives from Chile, Argentina, Brazil, the USA, France, Colombia, Panama, Paraguay, Belgium, and Kuwait were invited to participate in this unprecedented event.
This project was sponsored by Go Fly Paraquedismo and led by Paulo Pires, Davi Costa, Vitor Cruz, Paulo Perini, Jean Agostingo, and guest organizer Jason Russell.
18,000 Feet and Four Planes: The Tatui Edge
The record attempts required four planes flying in formation to an altitude of 18,000 ft AGL. This altitude requirement led to the decision to host the event in Tatui instead of the better-known Boituva, which has ceiling restrictions.
The fleet consisted of three Caravans and a Beech 99, with pilots from Skydive4Fun based in Boituva. Every attempt demonstrated the pilots’ familiarity and skill with formation loads. The three Caravans would take off to cries of “OBRIGADO JAH” (Thank God) and quickly gather into a tight formation. Five minutes later, the Beech would take off and join the formation by easing into the leader slot.
Rib & Spine: A Technical Evolution
The organizers implemented the new rib-and-spine build technique, seen at various state records in the United States. In addition to leading the team to a record, the organizers continued exploring nuances of the formation to gather information for the upcoming Vertical World Record.
Day 1: A Strong Start
Day 1 began with two warm-up jumps that intentionally did not allow everyone to dock. These jumps let the center of the formation focus on the build while those on the outside practiced their approach and break-off.
By jump three, everyone was permitted to dock and the official attempts had begun. After the second official attempt—the fourth jump of the event—the day ended with 53 out of 56 people docked. An incredibly strong start!
Day 2: Weather Delay, Bonding Gains
Day 2 had a poor weather forecast, so the time was used to rest, walk the formation, and enjoy a barbecue in Boituva. Bad weather days at bigway events are bittersweet. They interrupt momentum, but they also offer a great chance to catch up with friends from around the world.
Day 3: The Record and Beyond
We started early on Day 3, well-rested and hungry for a record. After small adjustments and coaching by the organizers, the team successfully set a 54-way head-down record on the second jump of the day.
But the vibes were too good to stop there. After high fives and cheers, we began walking a 58-way, the largest size possible with the available planes. A particularly thoughtful touch was the organizers individually recognizing each new addition to the team.
Although the next two jumps didn’t complete the 58-way, the organizers should be commended for doing everything possible to make this record as inclusive as possible.
A Milestone for South American Skydiving
Not long ago, a completed 54-way head-down formation was a rare feat usually seen only at the sport’s most iconic dropzones. Achieving it on the fourth attempt at a pop-up DZ in Tatui is a notable accomplishment.
South America has demonstrated both its passion and skill in vertical bigways, showcasing technical proficiency and international collaboration. The camaraderie and determination among participants was palpable, with each jump bringing the group closer to its goal.
This remarkable achievement marks a milestone in the region’s skydiving history and will hopefully inspire many to dream bigger and fly higher.
