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Women Over 50 Skydive, Not For Thrill, But For Cause

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A group of women are taking raising money for abused women to new heights.

"The whole idea of jumping out of that plane -- 13,000 feet up there -- is just so exciting," said Jean Ketcham, from Minneapolis.

Ketcham jumped out of a plane last summer, along with 100 other women. Every one of them was over 50.

"We are all about the way the world and women see aging, we're changing that whole perception," she said.

The group "Aging But Dangerous" named it the Martini Jump Skydive, after their celebratory drink. On Saturday, it will become an annual event at Twin Cities Skydive in Baldwin, Minn.

"I never thought I'd jump out of a plane," said Robin Mooney, another skydive participant.

Right before her first jump, Mooney wasn't worried about whether the parachute will open, or the impact of the landing. She just wants to inspire others.

"It's the perfect time to be that light of inspiration for other women," she said. "So that's helping me override the fear of jumping out a plane."

The women are out for more than the thrill and to change the perception of their age group. With each skydive, they'll raise money to help abused women.

Ketcham said, "There are more women in this age group that are being abused ... than any other age group."

Mooney is trying to convince others to join the jump.

"I would love to invite other women to come and take a leap of faith and jump with us, because their lives would never be the same," she said.

Celebrated Minnesota polar explorer, Ann Bancroft, is joining this year's jump. She's been to both the north and south poles, but has never jumped out of an airplane.

Women 50 and over can still sign up until the end of the day Friday. The cost is $240. A DVD of the jump will run you more.

Click here to sign up or get more information.

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