Pickleball Nationals Jump: In a spectacular fusion of sports and tribute, world-record-holding senior skydivers will perform an exhilarating demonstration jump at the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships. This special event, held on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, is a partnership between HearingLife and the upcoming documentary Skydiving Over Sixty: A Leap of Faith, which will premiere on ABC affiliates on Nov. 17.
Veterans Day Tribute in the Sky
Skydivers Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld (age 62, 32,000 jumps) and Larry Henderson (age 73, 7,725 jumps), both celebrated members of the Skydivers Over Sixty (SOS) group, are set to deliver a jaw-dropping aerial show. Their descent onto the tournament grounds will feature the iconic HearingLife and American flags trailing behind, creating a moving tribute to veterans. Brodsky-Chenfeld and Henderson, both participants in the record-breaking 2023 SOS World Record formation, aim to highlight the value of staying active at any age.
In April 2023, these skydivers joined over 100 senior skydivers in setting a new world record at Skydive Perris near Los Angeles. After eight attempts over four days, they achieved the largest freefall formation by skydivers over sixty, a feat that eclipsed the previous record of 75 skydivers set in 2018.
“Skydiving Over Sixty”: A Documentary on Defying Limits
The Skydiving Over Sixty: A Leap of Faith documentary showcases this historic record attempt and celebrates the determination of senior athletes reaching speeds of 120 miles per hour in pursuit of excellence. This film, set to debut just days after the demonstration, follows the journey of these athletes and captures the thrill and dedication behind their aerial feats. The documentary offers a unique window into the world of elite senior skydivers, inspiring viewers to embrace life’s possibilities, regardless of age.
Following the Veterans Day jump, HearingLife will host a celebratory happy hour at the tournament. This gathering will offer veterans, pickleball competitors, and fans a sneak peek at the documentary and the chance to meet Brodsky-Chenfeld and Henderson.
Promoting Health and Hearing with HearingLife
Throughout the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships, HearingLife will provide free hearing screenings and hearing health information at their booth in the Vendor Village. With a focus on enhancing quality of life, HearingLife will offer resources on hearing health, explaining how hearing loss affects athletic performance and everyday experiences. Attendees will learn about advancements in hearing aids, including devices that improve sound clarity in noisy environments—ideal for both pickleball players and skydivers alike.
Dr. Leslie Soiles, Chief Audiologist at HearingLife, shared the organization’s commitment to redefining limits. “By partnering with Skydivers Over Sixty, we’re demonstrating that age and hearing loss don’t have to be barriers to living an adventurous and fulfilling life,” said Dr. Soiles. “We want people to know that with today’s advancements in hearing technology, they can continue to pursue their passions—whether it’s skydiving, pickleball, or any other activity.”
USA Pickleball, HearingLife, and USPA: United in Celebration
The 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships represents a collaboration between the USA Pickleball organization, HearingLife, and the United States Parachute Association (USPA). USA Pickleball, the National Governing Body for pickleball in the U.S., continues its mission to foster the growth of the sport, offering premier tournaments and support to members nationwide. Meanwhile, HearingLife advocates for improved hearing health, while the USPA, founded in 1946, supports safe skydiving across the nation and encourages a lifelong spirit of adventure.
Reflecting on the inspiring role of skydiving and the enduring spirit of veterans, Brodsky-Chenfeld said, “Everybody dreams of flying at some point. The older we get, the more we think we can’t actually do it.” His sentiment underscores the incredible passion shared by these athletes as they bring their high-flying skills to new heights at the championships.
News in Brief: Pickleball Nationals Jump
World-record-holding senior skydivers Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld and Larry Henderson will perform a special Veterans Day jump at the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships. This demonstration, in partnership with HearingLife, celebrates senior athleticism and veterans while promoting the new Skydiving Over Sixty documentary, premiering on Nov. 17. HearingLife will offer free hearing screenings and insights into hearing health at the event, highlighting advances that enable active lifestyles. The demonstration serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the pursuit of passion at any age.
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