6/29/2016
A local man and his wife are preparing for a record breaking skydive this fall. Warren Almeida and his wife, Maura, have been training for the world’s first ever attempt at a tandem high altitude skydive.
Although there have only been a handful of successful high altitude jumps since 1960, the latest record breaking jump back in 2012 has inspired this young Brazilian couple to push the envelope of performing such jumps.
“We are very excited and have been training for a few months now”, said Warren. “I have only been skydiving for a few years, but I think this once in a lifetime opportunity is worth the risk.” Mrs. Almeida echoed similar feelings about the attempt, “I have never done a jump before and I also worry a little when Warren jumps”, explained Maura. “I love my husband very much and I want to join him! I will be very happy for him”. If the attempt is successful, Maura will be the first woman to have performed such a high altitude jump. The couple have been training in the Richmond area over several months, but will make their record shattering tandem jump over the desert of New Mexico.
Sponsored by Acme Bail Bonds, the Almeidas plan to ascend in a high altitude balloon to a height of over 200,000 feet, over 70,000 feet higher than Felix Baumgartner’s jumping altitude back in 2012. “I am wishing then the best in this jump”, stated Baumgartner. Once the Almeidas reach their desired altitude, the pair will jump while connected to each other. They also plan to renew their wedding vows during their descent back to earth during what is estimated to be a nearly 14 minute plunge.
Phil McCrackin, president of Acme Bail Bonds was reserved but hopeful about the attempt. “Somebody doing something like this has to crazy”, said McCrackin. “With my business needing a boost in patronage, I thought sponsoring this lovely couple would be good advertising.” McCrackin also stated that he has levied his personal assets to fund what Skydivers Weekly is calling the most “insane stunt” in the sport.
The attempt is scheduled for later this year in Roswell, New Mexico. Previous record breaking jumps have occurred in this region of the U.S., including Baumgartner’s jump which set records for highest jump and falling speed. Prior to his jump, Colonel Joseph Kittinger held the record since 1960 during the Excelsior Project. Kittinger stills holds onto the longest freefall (before parachute deployment) record.
Written by: Guy Edwards of The Times Herald
Related News: the above article is a joke article!!!