An “exceptionally skilled” British SAS soldier has died in a tragic parachuting accident at a skydiving competition in South Africa.
Staff Sergeant Chris Good, 52, was representing Great Britain at the 10th World Canopy Piloting Championships in Pretoria when the incident occurred.
Good, a highly experienced skydiver with 5,500 jumps to his name, had joined the Parachute Regiment at the age of 17.
He later became part of the Army’s elite Red Devils parachute display team, before joining the Special Air Service (SAS) in 2004.
Good became part of the Army’s elite Red Devils parachute display team (file photo)
PA
Throughout his distinguished military career, Good served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The accident took place just as Good was showcasing his exceptional skills.
Last month, he revealed he was using a new type of harness to enhance his performance, allowing him to fly further and faster.
The SAS man had acknowledged the potential hazards of the new harness, writing online: “As always, a change or development can bring risk!”
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Good was a highly experienced skydiver with 5,500 jumps to his name
BRITISH SKYDIVING
The International Skydiving Commission, which organised the event, expressed their sorrow, stating: “What an immense loss.”
The exact circumstances of the accident have not been disclosed, but the skydiving community has been left in shock by the loss of the talented and experienced competitor.
Tributes have poured in for the fallen soldier and skilled skydiver.
British Skydiving, the sport’s governing body, said: “Chris was a cherished member of the team and an exceptionally skilled skydiver. His loss will be deeply felt within our sport.”
The SAS Association informed members of Good’s death, noting his service within their A Squadron and E Squadron.
While Skydive Netheravon, the Army Parachute Association’s base, mourned the loss of their “instructor and friend”.
Former SAS sergeant Matt Hellyer paid tribute online, writing: “A paratrooper and pilgrim, fly high brother, see you at the [final rendezvous].”