LIMPOPO – For most, stepping out of a plane at 10 000 feet sounds terrifying. For Beverly Cosslett of Hoedspruit, it is where she feels most alive.

Since her first jump in 1997, she has built a career defined by courage, discipline, and trailblazing achievements, becoming South Africa’s first woman chief instructor and Africa’s first instructor evaluator.

“I remember my first jump like it was yesterday,” she says of her static line leap at Freeway Skydiving School. “The instructor thought I wasn’t loud enough in drills, but I had a perfect exit, canopy ride, and landing. I immediately went back up for jump number two.”

Her early training in gymnastics and acrobatics gave her the skills to thrive in freefall. Soon, she was achieving feats few attempt, including a still-unbroken South African record: 100 jumps in a single day with three teammates.

Cosslett has represented South Africa internationally in Croatia and Germany, while leading change at home in a male-dominated sport.

“Leading as a woman is a challenge,” she admits, “but I’m fortunate to have a strong, supportive team.”

For her, skydiving is about trust and teamwork, especially in large formations where dozens of skydivers create patterns mid-air. “There’s only one leader, and we leave egos in the parking lot. Everyone has a role to play.”

She has faced difficult moments, from panicked students to mid-air injuries, but insists the sport is built on safety and discipline. “People think skydiving is dangerous, but we’re calculated risk-takers. We use the best equipment, train hard, and keep each other accountable.”

Despite her accolades, Cosslett credits her peers for inspiring her. “My teammates juggle families, jobs, and passion for the sport. They put everything in, not for money, but for love of skydiving.”

Her advice to newcomers is simple.

“Just do it. Age or gender doesn’t matter; you can experience the joy and freedom of the skies.”

Now preparing for the national championships, Cosslett is also focused on mentoring the next generation of skydivers. And for Hoedspruit residents, she hints at something special.

“A skydiving event here is definitely on the cards. I’ll keep you in the loop.”