Kilkenny woman's brave skydive raises over €32k for charity

A woman living in Donegal Town and originally from Tullaroan in Co Kilkenny who completed a remarkable skydive last July has raised more than €32,000 for charity. 

Pictures: Kilkenny woman Kay (92) 'settled and calm' on daring 15,000ft charity skydive

Kay Sinclair raised €32,852 to Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland’s CEO Tony Philpott and Siobhan McGowan photographed the presentation.

Kay, who was 92 at the time and is now 93, planned the plunge in memory of her son Michael, below, on July 20 - the date of his passing in 1987 - with the Skydive for Life through the YSPI charity.

A Gaffney originally from Reimeen, Tullaroan, Kay was supported by her family members at the charity event and says, “at the start, everyone pleaded me to not do it, even my doctor advised against it … but once I have my mind set to something, I do.” 

“I thought it was going to be in Donegal Airport in Carrickfinn, but it wasn’t, so off I went to Offaly and because I had so many family members there, everyone could come and watch”  

However, she had to show patience due to strong wind conditions at the Irish Parachute Club at Clonbullogue Airfield in Co Offaly and the skydive was delayed by 24 hours.  

Conditions the following day had cleared somewhat, although there was still a strong breeze as, under the watchful eye of Coleman Brouder, the Chief Club Instructor, Kay did the skydive at 15,000 feet, determined to do so with so many people donating to the charity. 

“Everyone who worked there was helpful and brilliant,” Kay says. “I was very calm and settled because I felt as though Michael was with me. It was misty, and we went up and up above the clouds. You’re there, and the hatch is open; you’re looking out, and your legs are dangling, and away you go.” 

With family members from far and wide - particularly Donegal and Kilkenny - Kay wore a broad smile to plenty of acclaim as she landed. The dive was captured on video and shared by the Irish Parachute Club. 

Nine months on from her inspirational jump, Kay has taken the opportunity to extend her gratitude to everyone who supported her: “I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who donated to my fundraiser for Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland. Your generosity and kindness mean the world to me, and your support will make a real difference in helping those in crisis. Together, we are raising awareness, offering hope and saving lives.”