British SAS hero killed in horror parachute accident in South Africa
Sergeant Chris Good had completed 5,500 jumps after he first joined the Parachute Regiment aged 17.
A British SAS hero has been killed in a horrific parachuting accident in South Africa.
Staff Sergeant Chris Good died while representing Great Britain at the 10th World Canopy Piloting Championships in Pretoria, the competition's organisers announced.
Former SAS sergeant Matt Hellyer led tributes to Sgt Good, writing: “A paratrooper and pilgrim, fly high brother, see you at the [final rendezvous].”
Details of exactly what happenened are yet to be shared with public but the competition was known to include speed, distance and freestyle categories.
Some events saw competitors swooping low over the surface of the water and skimming the surface with their legs, as per The Sun.
Last month, Good said he had started using a new type of harness which allowed him to fly further and faster, writing: “As always, a change or development can bring risk!” It's not known whether it played any role in his death.
Sgt Good had served in SAS E Squadron, an elite cell of operatives hand-picked to work alongside MI6 spooks.
He was also extensive sky diving experience, having completed more than 5000 jumps after getting into the Parachute Regiment at just 17.
The fearless soldier was part of the world class parachute display team the Red Devils before joining the Special Air Service (SAS) in 2004 and serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The soldier was still serving with the SAS when the tragic incident occured, attached to the Army’s Parachute Association in Wiltshire, and was sponsored as an elite athlete under the Talented Athlete Support Scheme, a partnership between the Army and Sport England.
British Skydiving, the governing body of the sport, said in a statement: “With immense sadness, we announce the passing of Chris Good whilst skydiving in Pretoria, South Africa.
DON'T MISS:
SAS contestant Rachel Johnson reveals how she deals with being called a c*** [REPORT]
Pete Wicks ‘collapses’ and rushed to medics after gruelling training scenes [INSIGHT]
John Barrowman 'quits Celebrity SAS after hours - and another star leaves' [LATEST]
“Chris was representing Team Great Britain at the 10th World Canopy Piloting Championships. He was a cherished member of the team and an exceptionally skilled skydiver.
"His loss will be deeply felt within our sport. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Chris's family and friends during this difficult period,” it added.
The International Skydiving Commission, which organised the competition, said his death is “an immense loss", adding: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
The SAS Association sent a letter to members sharing the tragic news saying: “We are sad to report the death of Christopher Good on 25th September 2024 whilst participating in the World Canopy Piloting Championships in Pretoria.
“He came to 22 SAS from 3 Para, passing SAS selection in 2004. He Served in 2 Troops A Squadron and also with E Squadron (22 SAS).”
