Penrith has hosted countless sporting events over the years, but the upcoming Body Piloting Championships (BPC) could be the most thrilling of them all.
Taking place at iFly Downunder Penrith next Friday, February 7, the BPC is a cutting-edge indoor skydiving competition that combines elements of skydiving and indoor body piloting into a fast-paced, adrenaline-filled format.
Athletes from Australia, New Zealand, USA and Japan will demonstrate precision, creativity and control in a unique arena that challenges even the most skilled flyers.
Penrith has hosted the BPC before, with the competition growing in size and reputation each and every time. Body piloting creator and BPC director, Mason Corby, explained the idea behind the high flying competition.
“The idea for the Body Piloting Championships was born out of a desire to create an accessible, engaging format for both competitors and spectators,” Corby said.
“Traditional skydiving competitions are often complex and difficult for casual audiences to follow. The BPC introduces a simpler, head-to-head format that is entertaining, exciting and inclusive for all skill levels and audiences.”
Corby began testing the concept a decade ago with informal match-ups at indoor wind tunnels around the world to refine the rules, judging criteria and audience experience.
“Over the years, I decided to refine them at home in Australia where these test events evolved into a structured and repeatable format that allows athletes to showcase their skills while engaging a wide audience, both live and online,” Corby said.
Along with being the creator of body piloting, Corby also puts his own skills to the test in the BPC. In the fastest category known as ‘high speed’, Corby flew at speeds of over 300km/h for dynamic flying excellence. He’s currently undefeated in the category.
Closer to home, Doni Gales is doing Penrith proud as the top female competitor, with the talented local currently holding the championship for the middle speed category.
“Doni dominates over all the men, showing women can easily compete at an equal standard to the men around them,” Corby said.
“Women and men are not separated in this competition, they compete together. Doni consistently shows her precision and skill, translating her hours of dedication and dancing and athletic background.”
Spectators of all ages are invited to attend the Body Piloting Championships next Friday, February 7 at iFly Downunder Penrith. Corby said it will be a competition like no other.
“Spectators can enjoy thrilling head-to-head match-ups, live commentary, and a showcase of precision flying skills,” he said.
“The event is designed to entertain and inspire people of all ages.”
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.