A skydiver with a penchant for thrilling stunts narrowly avoided disaster when he crash-landed with a massive American flag at a rodeo, much to the shock of the onlookers who captured the event on video.
The footage reveals the parachutist smoothly descending towards the Folsom Pro Rodeo in Northern California, the large flag streaming behind him as he aimed for the arena.
However, the situation quickly deteriorated when the flag seemed to catch on a tree, causing the skydiver to lose control and hit the ground forcefully.
A video shared on Facebook by Krista Nicole Hefner shows the man descending sharply before colliding with a small tent set up near the grandstands, barely missing the audience. The video ends shortly after the impact, leaving viewers uncertain about his condition.
Fortunately, event organizers later confirmed that the skydiver, identified as Ross Vail, emerged from the accident without a scratch, even though the crash appeared severe in the online footage.
Onlookers reported that the crowd watched tensely until Vail rose, walked into the arena, and waved to the audience, assuring them of his safety and prompting a standing ovation.
Following the incident, Folsom Pro Rodeo organizers praised Vail’s calm demeanor, revealing that he was undeterred and planned to make another jump the following night.
“On behalf of the Folsom Pro Rodeo and Choose Folsom, our skydiver Ross is safe and walked into our arena, post jump, to a standing ovation,” the statement read. “He will be skydiving into our arena again tonight, July 3rd.”
True to their word, Vail was back in the skies the next evening for the rodeo’s second night, this time without incident.
The patriotic skydiving display has become a staple at the Folsom Pro Rodeo, with similar stunts performed annually as a prelude to the main event.
This year’s gathering celebrated the rodeo’s 65th anniversary, officially recognized by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, showcasing both the ‘tradition and excitement’ of the sport.
Organizers promote the event as essential for rodeo enthusiasts, blending competitive drama with the vibrant community vibe of Folsom, California.
UNILAD has reached out to the Folsom Pro Rodeo for additional comments.