one word [leap]
(ref: here ) It was, at first, a small step; the depression of footprint in sand was barely noticeable. The second and third were deeper; sand moved away from the boot; treads were visible. The fourth through tenth were deeper still and further apart; sand moved all about and between the prints. The eleventh and last was the deepest; sounds that had previously accommodated each step fell to a hush. Seconds that felt like hours dragged on as a temporary bird flew in parabolic flight. And LANDED!