The sport of jump rope/rope skipping lost a giant this week. Billy Jackson, a long-time athlete and performer passed away on September 23, 2021 at the age of 32. Billy was well-known throughout the global jump rope/rope skipping community as a gifted athlete, dancer, choreographer and performer. He began jumping at a young age with the Jazzy Jumpers from Louisiana in the United Sates and went on to win US National and World Jump Rope Grand World titles.

Under the lights

Billy thrived on the stage. With his dynamic personality, energy and enthusiasm, Billy commanded attention. He performed with Saltare on America’s Best Dance Crew and with Flight Crew Jump Rope on America’s Got Talent. He also toured the United States with Cirque Dreams. 

Check out these performances to see Billy in action! 

Remembering and celebrating Billy

Athletes, teammates and organizations took to social media this week to remember and celebrate the life of Billy Jackson. It is clear from the outpouring on social media, how much Billy means to the jump rope/rope skipping community.

Flight Crew posted on Instagram about the immense impact that Billy had on their team:

Chad Rankin, close friend, teammate and pairs partner of Billy Jackson shared the following message on Instagram:

Devin Meek, who performed with Billy, shared a compilation video that captures Billy’s humour and spirit:

Thank you, Billy 

Our thoughts are with Billy’s family and close friends during this difficult time. We would like to thank Billy for sharing his world with the jump rope/rope skipping community. You were taken too soon, but your spirit will live on each time we pick up a rope or step onto a stage.