Today, October 2, 104-year-old Dorothy Hoffner became the oldest person to ever skydive. The landmark event took place at Skydive Chicago Airport in Ottawa, Illinois and was reported by the Chicago Sun-Times. Hoffner surpassed the previous record set by a 103-year-old Swede the previous year.
First took an interest in skydiving years ago, Hoffner, and attempted her first jump on her 100th birthday. She completed this record-breaking jump donned in a light blue sweater, dark blue trousers, goggles, and an altimeter, forsaking the standard jumpsuit. Her world record certification is still under review.
Earlier in May 2022, the Guinness World Record for the oldest skydiver was held by Linnéa Ingegärd Larsson from Sweden. Following her jump, Hoffner, set to turn 105 in December, raised the sentiment, "Age is just a number," for the Chicago Tribune.
Persistent, Hoffner persevered in spite of several weather-related postponements. On the jump day, she was the first to leap. As Hoffner safely landed back on Earth, cheers and applause erupted from the onlooking crowd, as friends and supporters rushed over in celebration.
When asked for her future plans in an article by the Chicago Tribune, Hoffner casually proposed the idea of a hot-air balloon ride.
Hoffner's audacity and spirit has shown that age is a lesser barrier after all. As Hoffner continues to defy traditional expectations, her endurance and adaptability serve as an inspiring model.
