Optimum CTR, the Brazilian National 4-way team has recently returned from its first training camp of the 2008 season, in Eloy, Arizona.
Their coach, Craig Girard (of Arizona Airspeed) introduced the team to Skydive Arizona's newest addition - a Pilatus Porter. Optimum CTR will represent Brazil at the 18th World Championships of Formation Skydiving in Maubeuge, France in August. Porters will be used at that meet so it was time for the team to get used to the different exit techniques and sight pictures out of a right hand door.
In 6 days of training the team made 40 skydives and did 6 hrs of wind tunnel. The main focus was on B slots and learning the new roles.
Plans for 2008 include another training camp at Skydive Arizona and training in Brazil as well. The Brazilian 4-way Nationals will take place in September this year and Optimum CTR will be competing - planning on earning the gold medal for the 5th time in a row :)
Team members are Andre Ferraz (Point), Pedro Ushizima Jr. (Inside Center), Fabio Diniz (Tail), Ziara Abud (Outside Center) Renato "Gordinho" Acerbi (Camera).
We wish Optimum CTR best of luck in future training & competitions - we look forward to see you guys in France!
