Vanessa Potts

Vanessa Potts

Jul 17

First jump	April 21, 2012 I did my first tandem which was also an SCR and an ash dive to release my dad’s ashes. July 7, 2012 I did my first solo after saving up my money for the course. Nothing is more beautiful and healing than skydiving.
Jumps	119+
Ratings	None
Future ratings	USPA Coach; AFF Instructor; Tandem Instructor; PRO Rating
Container	I jump an Infinity by Velocity. I picked an Infinity because it came standard with an RSL, had a non exposed reserve pilot chute, and the placement of the AAD’s screen forces you to do a reserve pin check every time you turn it on and check the AAD before each jump. I also loved the color choices, designs, and overall look.
Main canopy	I fly a sabre 2 150. I love the canopy for the soft openings, easy toggle input, and forgiveness with packing techniques. It also has a long recovery arc which will be helpful later on when in hundreds of jumps from now I start learning the basics of swooping.
Favorite discipline	Freeflying
Skydiving Training	Skydive Spaceland
What if anything would you improve in this sport?	I’d like jumpers to be more aware and educated on their gear. Too many times I see jumpers who can’t even connect a canopy to their risers. Something so basic as that and a jumper can’t do it worries me for their safety. I believe all jumpers should have to have a working knowledge of their gear.
Most common mistake you see new jumpers make?	I see two. The first is learning to freefly without having a basis in belly. I don’t think a set number should be placed on jumps before you can freefly, but a certain skill set should be achieved. Everyone should be able to fly in a basic formation safely and turn some points. I also think they should be strong trackers before getting on big way jumps. Tracking isn’t focused on enough for the safety aspect of horizontal separation on opening. My other most common mistake seen is girls all too willing to sleep with instructors. They’re teaching you to be a safe skydiver, not have safe sex.