We are saddened to learn of the passing of Claude Gillard, Hall of Fame 2012. Claude's sport parachuting career spans more than a half century. He began jumping in 1959 and was an Australian parachuting champion by 1962. He was a pioneer of relative work performing the first 2-way in Australia as well as several baton passes. In September 1961, Gillard leaped from 23,600 feet—a two-minute, eight-second free fall—an Australian record that helped publicize the sport in his nation. He is a judge, coach, rigger, instructor and competitor; he was instrumental in introducing new concepts to the Australian parachuting industry. Gillard served as president of the Australian Parachute Federation from 1966 – 2001; he was a Fédération Aéronautique Internationale judge beginning in 1968; and president of the International Parachuting Commission from 1994-1999. He was a leading proponent of canopy relative work around the world and was awarded the title of Companion of Honor in 2003 from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. Claude, you will be missed.

In Memoriam
Monday, August 3, 2020 - 07:05