By Lt. Lori A. Campbell, Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs
CHULA VISTA, Calif. (NNS) -- More than 3,000 BMX riders and fans watched the Navy Parachute Team, the Leap Frogs, perform during the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) BMX Supercross World Cup held at the U.S. Olympic Training Center (OTC) in Chula Vista, Calif., Sept. 19.
The event brought together BMX riders from 29 states and three countries to compete in the American Bicycle Association U.S Nationals, held in conjunction with the UCI World Cup.
The atmosphere was electric. Riders from age 6 to 60 whizzed around the new, purpose-built track catching air over every bump.
The biking action paused for a few minutes as the Leap Frogs parachuted down giving an incredible display of precision team work. Two jumpers performed a high-speed diamond track formation and reached approximately 180 miles per hour, while other jumpers gracefully circled down trailing bright colored smoke.
"We're excited to have the military present and be a part of this event," said Dave Stow, associate director of the U.S. OTC. "This event was a great event to reach out to the international community, the city of Chula Vista, the military, Olympic Training Center and the sport of BMX."
The last jumper touched down in unison with the ending of the national anthem, sung by Musician 3rd Class Ashely Monroig from Navy Band Southwest.
Shortly after the Leap Frogs' arrival, the parachute team met with spectators to talk about their experiences at Naval Special Warfare. Navy recruiters from Navy Recruiting District San Diego also answered questions about officer and enlisted career paths in the Navy.
"These athletes could be a great fit at Naval Special Warfare one day," said Chief Special Warfare Boat Operator (SWCC) J.C. Ledbetter, the senior enlisted member of the Leap Frogs. "It has obviously taken hard work and dedication for these riders to get to this competitive level. That's the kind of commitment it takes for guys to make it to the [special warfare] teams."
For more information about the Navy Parachute Team, visit www.leapfrogs.navy.mil, or for information about Naval Special Warfare programs, visit www.sealswcc.com.