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Parachuting (April 2007)
![Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College (DSFC)](javascript:PopupPic("/military/images/para1.jpg");)
On the 21st of April, 13 Welbexians visited RAF Weston-on-the-Green for what would possibly become the most frightening time of our lives. Oliver Morris, Adam Leveridge, Daniel Jones, Chris Hill, Ben Edworthy, Daniel Mould, Dave Cant, Ben Askew, George Marsden, Matt Kimpton, Kris Axon, Ashley Hobson and myself were about to attempt a parachuting course which ended with a solo jump from 3500ft.
We all arrived at RAF Weston-on-the-Green late on Friday night, quickly setup our homes for the weekend and thought of the following days. Saturday started early and for the day, we were taken through all we needed within 6 hours by the staff. Then came the moment of truth. We were going to jump out of an aircraft moving at speed beyond 80mph and over a mile off the ground. One after the other, we fell from the aircraft with fearful speed. Seconds later our chutes opened with our hearts racing and adrenaline coursing through our veins. Touch-down back to solid ground was made with varying degrees of success with some members making perfect landings whilst others making dubious landings however we all made it back to the hanger without major injuries. Before the night was through, the staff kindly hosted a barbeque for the parachutists and skydivers.
![Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College (DSFC)](javascript:PopupPic("/military/images/para2.jpg");)
The feeling was primeval, the surge of adrenaline was overwhelming and the sensation was unforgettable, some yearned for the feeling again so five of us returned for another jump, with others catching the last trains home. The five remaining were in for a shock. They always say that the first is always the hardest… parachuting is the exception to that rule. Most of us were wondering why we had signed up for the jump again, but when we left the aircraft for the skies, we soon remembered why.
![Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College (DSFC)](javascript:PopupPic("/military/images/para3.jpg");)
The weekend of the 21st-22nd of April was one of the most memorable and would not have been successful without the efforts of the staff of Skydive Weston, Dave Cant and Daz Adam for the organisation of the entire weekend. Other Welbexians are going to take part in the course with several considering parachuting as a serious hobby. All in all a very successful weekend enjoyed by all who participated.
Richard Hughes, Stirling, 06E
