I stood on the edge of the platform, the canyon yawning before me. I was harnessed in, but I couldn't actually see what the harness was connected to, or how it was going to prevent me from making 'Annie Jam' of myself on the rocks below. It was cold and the river below looked like iced coffee, flowing quickly over the stones. I suppose it would be quick, in the worse case scenario.
My understanding was that I would step off the platform and be suspended above the canyon and when I said go, the guys would flick a switch or cut a rope or something and I would be in a 60 meter free fall followed by a massive arc across the canyon. I clarified this with the guys, "So when I step out, I'll be suspended?"
"Yep!"
"Will I drop at all?"
"Oh....about 6 inches, not much."
Gingerly, I stepped one foot out, bent my legs and as the other foot left the platform, the world went a different shape. It felt like a few seconds passed before I realised I was in freefall. Icy wind whipped upwards, swallowing the long vowel of the expletive that I yelled when I realised what had happened.
Seamlessly, the loud rush of air ceased and I was floating above the river, gently swinging back and forth. Peace. It was the most peaceful feeling. I spread my arm out to feel the cool air whooshing past (the other arm was hanging on firmly to the harness) and whooped with delight. I did it! I stepped over the edge of the platform into the unknown and despite the uncertainty, despite the frightening rush and despite the slight discomfort of the harness, it was so worth it for the amazing feeling that followed.
To be continued....
