Interview with Mark Kirby November 1, 2003
1 How many years have you been jumping ?- 18
2 Number of jumps?- 17000+.
3 Hours coaching in the tunnel?- 300+ hrs.
4 Pros/cons of tunnel vs skydiving training?-
I can only praise tunnel training for its effectiveness and value for money. Of coarse the tunnel can never completely replace the real thing, but tunnel training has in my experience always surpassed my goals and expectations.
5 You are one of the most active tunnel coaches, why?-
I enjoy coaching in th tunnel very much. This year we have been considering developing a core of coaches who will fill the upcoming expansion of tunnel camps, and the increased availability of tunnel facilities around the country.
6 Any comments regarding the upgrade at SkyVenture Orlando?-
The upgrades at skyventure Orlando, I believe have changed dramatically how teams and individuals can use their time more effectively. Airspeed has expanded the limits of what it can train in the flying chamber, due to the increased power and consistency, a lot of moves feel like free fall, where previously teams would have to fly with a very disciplined style. The expanded areas of glass are a nice touch, and two doors for fast entry and exit give the flyers more time.
7 What do you like about skydiving professionally?-
I love the intensity of competition.
The close friendships with some really dynamic fun people.
8 What do you like least about skydiving professionally?-
I would have to say skygod-ism, which places accomplishments and status over the importance of people.
9 Tell me about any injuries you've sustained skydiving?-
I have been extremely lucky, mostly sprains and torn ligaments in ankles, and knee’s, a broken nose at the past world championships Gap 03. Also some small injuries in my back.
10 Do you have an off season?-
If there was a off season per say, it would be November to January, but this could be misleading, airspeed will frequently cut into this time to stay ahead of the training, and prepare for the Valentines meet, which falls in the middle of February.
11 Is this a job or hobby?-
Skydiving feels like a mixture of the two, its an extremely fun profession.
12 Goals & Expectations?- My next year will consist of expanding my coaching experience.
Prepare for school this fall.
14 Who do you look up to and admire?-
Most of the people I would admire would be people who have not just pursued excellence for themselves, but for the sport as well, Jack jefferies, Dan bc, Alan Metni, George jicha
15 Politics of being a professional skydiver?-
The political side usually involves being approachable to the everyday jumping public. Sticking hard to our commitments to our sponsors, and as members of Team USA.
Also if possible, only becoming involved in the important controversial issues in the sport.
16 Sponsors?-
Skydive Arizona, Sunpath products harness containers, Performance designs canopies, SkyVenture, Square One, Go fast sports helmets and sports drink, Larsen & brussgard, pro track audible altimeters, Airtime designs jumpsuit’s, Conopus hardware & software, Birdman wingsuits, Tri-valley fitness gym and personal training, Mike Justus apparel, Dragon optical.
17 If you could have any sponsor, who?-
The sponsor which would make the biggest difference would be equivalent to the one the French team gained during the late eighties, Tag, a single sponsor equivalent to Tag to support all aspects of training.
18 Pro in any other sport?-
I would like to be a professional endurance athlete, ultra runner- ironman, something of this nature.
19 Stupid human tricks?-
I have an impression of a 1920's boxer, that is not very flattering. Also a wicked eye flutter, when I close one eye.
20 Arnold being governor ?-
Like a lot of people I thought it would be fun and cool, I hope he kicks butt.
21 Roy mauled ?-
Tragic and shocking. Now that he’s going to make it, I hope he can see the funny side!.
22 Thanks?-
Not just the sponsors, past and present team mates, but mostly to all the people in th skydiving community who supported the Airspeed project through our challenges of the past decade.
