**Kirkland Woman with Cerebral Palsy Sets Unofficial Skydiving Record in Washington State**
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In a remarkable display of determination and courage, Tania Finlayson, a woman born with cerebral palsy, has achieved an unofficial skydiving record in Washington state. During a much-anticipated jump on April 17, she and her instructor, Zephaniah Knottnerus, leapt from an impressive height of 17,694 feet, reaching exhilarating speeds of 125 mph. The accomplishment comes as part of Tania’s aspiration to push boundaries and redefine possibilities, particularly in her home state.
Witnessed by her family, including her husband, Ken, and their 19-year-old son, Michael, this skydiving event marked a poignant milestone. Both Ken and Michael made their leaps moments prior to Tania’s tandem jump, showcasing a family united in adventure and daring feats. The jump has provisionally set records for the greatest drogue fall distance and maximum vertical speed in Washington state, pending official confirmation from the United States Parachute Association (USPA) following data authentication.
Tania, who has been a non-verbal quadriplegic since birth, previously held the Guinness World Record for the longest distance driven in 24 hours using a chin-controlled wheelchair. Her latest skydiving endeavour is more than just an attempt at a record; it represents a profound experience of liberation. “Skydiving feels like freedom to me. For a little while, I am not defined by my disability,” Tania shared with ABC News through a device that captures her head movements in Morse code.
Expressing the significance of skydiving for her and her family, Tania emphasised that it is one of the few activities where they can participate together fully. “That means everything to me,” she remarked. This particular jump was particularly special, as it was the first time the entire Finlayson family skydived together.
Reflecting on her life, Tania stated in a blog post on the TandemMaster website that she has faced numerous challenges from the outset. Following a complicated birth, medical professionals advised her parents to consider institutional care, asserting that she would not thrive. However, her parents dismissed these suggestions, choosing instead to raise her with love and resilience.
The April jump also held sentimental value for Tania and Ken, as it was at Skydive Kapowsin in Shelton, Washington, where they first crossed paths in 1988. Tania had triumphed over adversity to complete her early jumps, with 53 jumps under her belt now, against Ken’s impressive tally of 152. Both have achieved B-licenses from the USPA, earned after completing at least 50 jumps.
Moreover, their son Michael recently embarked on his journey to become a licensed skydiver himself. Having completed the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) programme, he earned his A-license in March, signifying his proficiency and dedication to the sport after making 25 jumps.
As Tania’s skydiving record awaits formal recognition, she continues to inspire many through her tenacity and spirit. Her journey illuminates the possibilities that exist beyond physical limitations, encouraging others to embrace challenges irrespective of obstacles. Tania Finlayson’s story serves as a testament to the power of hope, family support, and the desire to soar high against all odds.