94-year-old fulfills lifelong dream by skydiving in Barnstable

Even at 94 years old, Charles Colbath wasn't going to let his age stop him from fulfilling one of his dreams.

Colbath had a goal to jump from a plane and soar through the air, and had the chance Saturday to make it happen when he suited up with Skydive Barnstable.

"I always wanted to go jump out of an airplane," Colbath said. "The best part was when I left the plane."

Decades ago, Colbath took flying lessons, and said he always loved being up in the air.

The hobby was an expensive one, however, and he was forced to give it up, postponing one of his dreams.

The father of eight children never fully conceded the thought, and one of his kids helped to motivate Colbath once more.

"My son moved over by the airport," Colbath said. "He watched the jumpers the past couple of months. He asked me one day, he said, 'I know you always wanted to go up. Do you want to do it?" I said, 'Immediately.'"

On Saturday, that dream became a reality, with no second thoughts or doubts in Colbath's head.

"You never give a thought about, 'There's gonna be a problem,'" Colbath said. "You just do it and go on with your life."

Five of Colbath's children, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren were there to watch the feat, all supporting him through the journey.

Although he didn't get any pushback from his family, Colbath said he didn't pay attention to anyone doubting his dream.

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"I've never taken any, 'Don't do it' advice from anybody," Colbath said.

Colbath fell through the air at 120 mph, and was able to take in the scenery as his parachute opened.

Now, Colbath is letting his leap of faith serve as a reminder to live life well, and to do so fearlessly.

"My advice is, it don't make no difference," Colbath said. "Age is only a number, and as long as you have your health, just live your life."

Cox Media Group