Not-Quite-CarolinaFest RECAP! 

Featuring: Neil Kuhlman 

Ascend FlightFest, affectionately dubbed “Not-Quite-CarolinaFest” by the Skydive Carolina faithful, was a long weekend to remember. Held the last weekend of May 2025, the event doubled as a skills-camp and boogie, making it so much more than just a warmup for CarolinaFest returning in 2026. 

When asked to sum up the event in one word, esteemed movement organizer, Neil Kuhlman, said, “Vibes!” And yeah, we couldn’t agree more. Here’s a deeper look at how Skydive Carolina made something typical, extraordinary. 

The Format Is The Best 

Not-Quite-CarolinaFest was set up to be a skills camp that has a heavy focus on movement … but with boogie vibes. Meaning, if angle flying isn’t your thing, or you are simply younger in your skydiving progression, there was still plenty to do and much to learn from organizers of multiple disciplines – no one was left out! 

From Mr. Potato Head jumps and large speed stars, to the shreddiest of angles, the structure was intentionally inclusive, which made it a great introductory boogie if someone has never been to one (BEER!). 

Neil said, “The skills camp/boogie format is incredibly effective. A few days of focused small-group flying creates space for technical progression, while the larger group jumps allow everyone to express creativity and connect with the broader community. It’s a great balance of structure and fun.” 

Photos by Chris Bess “Orbit Media”

Passionate Organizers 

All skydivers know the feeling of bothering an up-jumper (someone who is more experienced than you) and it’s not a fun feeling! Skydive Carolina purposefully sought out organizers who are passionate about skydiving and teaching the next generation. 

Neil said, “One of the most rewarding aspects of organizing at skills camps is the opportunity to share knowledge and grow together as a team. There’s something deeply fulfilling about contributing to someone’s progression while continuing to evolve alongside them.” A mentality that all skydivers must have is that the learning never stops, and it’s evident that Neil holds himself to that standard. 

He admits, “Burnout is something we all face at times, which is why introducing fresh dynamics is so important. It reignites our motivation, challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones, and creates space to discover what we’re truly capable of.” Organizers with this mindset have the natural ability to make skydivers of all backgrounds and disciplines feel welcome and foster growth, all while keeping safety at the forefront.  

Neil also said, “Organizing is always a unique challenge – it’s like solving a dynamic puzzle. Finding the right tempo for each group can take finesse, but it always comes back to the idea that we’re only as strong as our weakest link. Building from that foundation is where the magic happens.” 

We agree that prioritizing progression without leaving anyone in the dust is key to a safety-first and fun environment. 

Jumps For All Levels & Disciplines 

When asked about his most memorable or favorite jump from the event, Neil doubled down: “On day one, flying dynamic lines with Megan, Alanna, and Matt for the first time at an event, was an awesome mix of energy and skill.” And, “On the final day, getting to fly with Sue and witness some of her first back-to-belly transitions. Moments like that are what it’s all about.” 

That really is what it’s all about! A beautiful characteristic of skydiving is that everyone starts in the exact same place, with that very first skydive. Viewing one’s progression through the sport through the lenses of humility is critical to progress without sacrificing what the sport really is all about – soaring the skies with our friends and helping them along the way. 

Photos by Chris Bess “Orbit Media”

People Who Love The Sport 

Skydiving is dependent on the favor of the weather gods, and it’s a shame that they’re often angry during what could be an epic skydiving weekend. That being said, being grounded doesn’t mean the stoke has to die down, it just has to transition from the sky to other modes of learning. 

Neil said, “It’s tough when everyone’s eager to fly and the skies don’t cooperate. But that’s where the strength of the community shines. Being grounded with a group of passionate, like-minded individuals creates space for connection – whether that’s diving deep into conversations about skydiving or heading out for something fun like bowling. The shared passion for flight keeps the vibe high, even when we’re grounded.”

Although we were weathered out for two days, we were blessed with two days of pristine skydiving weather. Neil said that playing the waiting game with the weather gave everyone that extra push to fly hard and love every moment of the good weather – making the energy “electric.” 

Why Skydive Carolina Shines 

Neil graciously said, “Skydive Carolina is a fantastic host dropzone. The staff brings great energy, the location is beautiful, and the wide open landing area makes managing multiple groups much smoother. Not to mention, the food truck is consistently on point.” 

At the end of the day, we’re all just people who like to fling ourselves out of perfectly good airplanes alongside some other pretty sick people. Skydive Carolina was proud to embody the spirit of the skydiver with an event that is so near and dear to us. And we’re ever-so-thankful to have Neil Kuhlman as an organizer – thank you! 

Don’t miss CarolinaFest in 2026! Dates to be announced. (Never jumped but want a piece of the action next boogie? Get to gettin’! Book your tandem and enroll in our AFF program – no day like today!) Blue skies!