Skydive Arizona is proud to announce that Craig “Sarge” Girard has been inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame, joining the Class of 2025.
The Arizona Sports Hall of Fame recognizes athletes, coaches, and contributors who have made lasting impacts on sports within the state. Induction reflects not only competitive achievement, but sustained excellence and influence over time. Craig’s selection places him among a distinguished group of Arizona sports figures whose careers have shaped the state’s athletic legacy.
A Career Defined by World-Class Performance
Craig Girard is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished competitive formation skydivers in history.
Over the course of his career, he earned eight world championship gold medals in four-way and eight-way formation skydiving. His consistency at the highest levels of international competition helped define an era of American dominance in the discipline.
As a member of the U.S. Army Golden Knights, Craig refined the precision, discipline, and leadership that would later characterize his civilian competitive career. Following his military service, he became a foundational member of Arizona Airspeed, representing the team for 16 years and contributing to its global reputation for excellence.
Elevating the Sport in Arizona
Craig’s impact extends beyond podium finishes. He played a key organizing role in the historic 400-way world record formation, demonstrating both technical mastery and leadership within the global skydiving community.
At Skydive Arizona in Eloy, Craig has continued to serve as a coach, mentor, and competitor — helping develop new generations of skydivers while upholding the standards that have defined his career.
His induction into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame formally recognizes decades of dedication, championship performance, and leadership that have elevated both the sport of skydiving and Arizona’s place within it.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Craig will be officially inducted at the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame ceremony in 2026, where he will be honored alongside other distinguished members of the Class of 2025.
For Skydive Arizona and the broader skydiving community, this recognition reflects the impact one athlete can have — not only through medals and records, but through leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence that endures long after competition ends.
Craig Girard’s induction is a proud moment for Arizona and for the sport he has helped define.