In mid August of 1998, I completed the freefall and canopy requirements for the A license. Basically this boils down to being able to control the speed of descent while freefalling, being able to move horizontally, execute turns and flips, and link up to another skydiver (relative work). Also I have to be able to hit the ground target on 5 landings.
In early September 1998, I completed my parachute packing and written test requirement. The necessary form was filled out and mailed. I'm happy to say that as of 11 September 1998 I officially became a USPA licensed skydiver. Kick ass!
There was a two year hiatus after becoming licensed when I didn't jump at all. In 1999, I moved to Michigan and was saving my money to finance my AT thruhike and in summer 2000 when I returned to civilization I found my cash limited. Now I'm settled in Colorado and returned to skydiving in 2001. Metro Denver is served by two drop zones, Mile High Skydiving and Denver Skydivers. I've tried Denver Skydivers in Brush, CO but got a little bit of a weird vibe from the owners and they did seem a little anal about the landing proceedure. Then I took another couple years off. Damn, I really need some partners. Anyone want to give it a try?
Jumpcraft:
Cessna 182 at Skydive BG
Cessna 208 at Denver Skydivers