Kolla had a job judging the Last Big Splash a few weeks ago, and I thought I’d go along to see some swoop carnage, test out our new FlipCam! and get some sun. It was a great weekend, apart from the sweltering heat and feeling slightly awkward at first—I used to judge Florida swoop meets as well, but having been out of the state for the last three years, I let myself out of the swoop-loop a bit. But, it turns out today’s swoopers are just as friendly, crass and awesome as they’ve always been

So, for your viewing entertainment, we bring you the first day of Last Big Splash. Let us know what you think (but be kind, it’s our first foray into video-land!) and enjoy!

We’ll also have several sweet photos from photographer Justin Carmody in the November issue of Blue Skies Mag, so keep your eye out for that—and stay tuned for Day Two of Last Big Splash…

By Mike Shatalov

10. It’s a new lineset, the canopy just doesn’t fly right!
9. I was just practicing a new turn/trying something new.
8. Didn’t get laid/got laid too much last night.
7. The wind pushed the top skin of my canopy causing me to sink in the turn/move off course.
6. My chest strap was so long it created extra drag.
5. I was laughing too hard after watching Ian Drennan face plant.
4. Man, i caught a thermal at like 1000 feet, that threw my turn way off and caused me to vertical.
3. Swamp gas from a weather balloon was trapped in a thermal pocket and reflected the light from Venus into my eyes.
2. I had an extra serving of the weak sauce with my steak last night.
1. I just got scared.

Got a better excuse for your lame swoop? Don’t be greedy—add it to the comments and share the excuses.