Michigan's adventurous octogenarian, Kim Knor, is undeniably defying stereotypes as she nears her 700th skydive, a feat that aligns with the upcoming World Skydiving Day. At 85 years old, she has not just embraced the sky as her playground but is also inspiring others with her bold pursuit of a ‘Gold Wings’ achievement, indicative of 1,000 skydives. Audacy reports that Knor, who made her inaugural leap in 1959, is focused on reaching her 1,000-jump milestone by next summer.
Despite a 37-year break from skydiving, to raise her family, her enthusiasm for the sport remains undiminished. After her husband's passing, Knor resumed her long-standing goal for the prestigious Gold Wings. "I’ve probably got 18 or 20 years left, so I might as well have fun," Knor told Audacy. She plans to conclude her jumps in Michigan with a World Skydiving Day jump in Grand Haven.
The determination of this 85-year-old woman is not just about personal milestones, it's also about setting an example. FOX 2 Detroit emphasizes her stature in the skydiving community, as she stands as a "JOE" for Jumpers Over Eighty. "This is the life, to retire and play in the sky," Knor remarked.
Knor isn't new to recognition either; alongside her skydiving endeavors, she was a part of history as a member of the first U.S. Women’s Parachute Team, claimed a gold medal at the 1962 World Championships, and later found her name in the International Skydiving Hall of Fame, as reported by modeldmedia.
Knor's journey has seen her airborne in solo endeavors until the age of 72, only to continue the thrill tandem as years advanced. "I’m just hoping to be like her one day," said Daniel Castillo, a skydiving instructor inspired by Knor's indomitable spirit.
