SkyHawks parachutist injured during jump at Ex

LINDSAY — A male member of the SkyHawks is in “high spirits” following a hard landing during the Canadian Armed Forces parachute team’s show Saturday at the Lindsay Exhibition.

The parachutist came in fast in front of the crowd at the fairgrounds shortly after 3 p.m. and after his awkward-looking landing, he was tended to by paramedics for an extended amount of time.

The injured SkyHawks member was then taken by the paramedics to Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay for further treatment.

Capt. Derek Reid, public affairs officer with the SkyHawks, said he has spoken with the team member a number of times since the incident, but said he cannot name him or offer specifics on his injuries due to what he said are privacy rules.

“He’s in good condition and, as ever, high spirits,” Reid said. “We only have one week left in our performance schedule and he’s looking forward to getting on the mend and jumping again.”

Reid said the team normally holds a debriefing after every jump — practice and performance — but will have a “harder look” at Saturday’s incident in order to “reduce the risk” of a repeat.

“Skydiving in an inherently dangerous sport,” said Reid.