Brilliantly colored parachutes danced in the wind against a cloudless blue sky during Skydive Sebastian’s third annual Splash Bash Boogie, luring jumpers from all over the United States and from as far away as Germany and England to the Drop Zone for three fun-filled days, complete with jumps and camaraderie two weekends ago.
Not only could participants relish unsurpassed views in jumps over the Sebastian Inlet and Atlantic Ocean, but after their descent could cool off and relax in huge inflatable pools, soak in a hot tub to ease sore muscles or enjoy great bands and succulent barbecue.
“The Splash Bash has quickly become the largest charity skydiving event in the country. Last year we raised a little more than $7,000,” said event organizer Jeff Holmstock. “We have over 200 attendees this year. Skydivers love to jump here because of the incredible view, but also because we offer so much fun and entertainment in between their jumps.”
Skydivers love diversity, so this year they brought in two vintage transport planes – a Casa 212 and a WW2 Biplane – as well as a Bell Huey 42 Huey Helicopter to take them up.
Skydiving is not just for the young, according to 95-year-old WWII veteran Mike Holmstock.
“I did my last jump on my 93rd birthday right here in Sebastian,” said Holmstock, adding that he has been jumping since he first enlisted in the 82nd Airborne at age 19. “This year I’m sitting it out, but I can feel the sense of freedom and the adrenaline rush just watching them.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit Love of Paws, a Fellsmere-based nonprofit organization that provides food and care for pets belonging to the elderly and disabled.
“Our pet pantry has over 5,000 pounds of free pet food every month for those in need,” said Ted Pankiewicz. “We deliver to Meals on Wheels every Monday morning so pets can have a hearty meal delivered along with their owner’s.”
They also have their own delivery route to other homebound seniors and their pantry serves roughly 300 walk-in seniors each month who need assistance feeding their beloved pets. Additionally, they work closely with 17 Indian River County food banks, the Humane Society and H.A.L.O.
“The demand is very high so we are very thankful to be chosen as the beneficiary of this spectacular event,” said Pankiewicz.
The group also has a five-acre sanctuary to care for pets surrendered by elderly owners entering hospice or nursing homes.
“We foster those pets until we can find them a new home, or they live with us until they join their owners in Heaven,” said Pankiewicz, adding they similarly foster pets whose owners are in rehab after surgery.
For more information, visit pawspetfoodpantry.org.
Article by: Kerry Firth, correspondent
Photos by: Denise Ritchie
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