Craig Girard: 8 Time Formation Skydiving World Champion (2023) Artwork

The 20 Minute Call - A Skydiving Podcast

The 20 Minute Call Podcast is a podcast about the dreamers, boundary pushers, rebels and champions of the skydiving industry. Each episode is a narrative journey highlighted by the highs, lows, and luck that the skydiving industry delivers told by the most influential people within the sport.

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a skydiver, opening a DZ or becoming the next world champion, check out The 20 Minute Call hosted by James La Barrie

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The 20 Minute Call - A Skydiving Podcast

Craig Girard: 8 Time Formation Skydiving World Champion (2023)

January 27, 2025 • James La Barrie • Season 2

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Born in Tempe, Arizona, Craig Girard made his first jump on March 14, 1981, at Sky Hi-Pioneer DZ, Phoenix, AZ, and has since accumulated over 32,000 jumps.

His illustrious career spans more than four decades, and he has won numerous awards and championships, including US National Champion 8-way for an impressive 18 times, and US National Champion 4-way six times.

Craig's success in World Cups is equally outstanding, securing five 8-way championships and two 4-way championships. He is also a two-time World Games Champion, a four-time Bodyflight World Challenge Tunnel Champion, a six-time World Champion in 8-way, and a two-time World Champion in 4-way.

A former U.S. Army Golden Knight, a long-time member of Arizona Airspeed, and the chief freefall instructor at Skydive Dubai, Craig's achievements also include being a key member of the 300, 357, and 400-way large formation world records. His influence on the sport earned him a place in the International Skydiving Hall of Fame.

Whether flying with the Golden Knights, leading Airspeed's 8-way team, or coaching the next generation of World Class teams, Craig's influence on the sport is truly unparalleled.