Balloonists Put on a Show Despite Uncooperative Weather

[August 30, 2023]   Although weather conditions proved unfavorable for the scheduled hot air balloon launch and balloon glow on Saturday evening, the hundreds who turned out with lawn chairs and picnic blankets at the 455 Campus View Drive launch site seemed content to watch what show the balloonists could manage in the windy conditions.

Many balloon crews were able to partially inflate the balloons so observers could appreciate the bright colors and the impressive size of the hot air balloons. In fact, cold air half-inflated balloons on the ground made for excellent selfies and family photos.

Even observing how the balloonists’ teams pack up the hot air balloons was interesting. Several people working together bunched the balloon through a metal ring that squeezed the remaining air out, compressed the balloon together so it could be secured with velcro, and left it looking like a fat, colorful snake on the ground, ready to be folded up

Balloonists also had their wicker and rattan baskets set up for closer inspection and for demonstrations of the burners used to heat the air to create lift for the balloons. Later in the evening, the announcer declared, “We are going to try something new!”

The eleven balloon pilots boarded their baskets and on cue from the announcer ignited their burners in time with music played over the PA system. Even standing well back, the heat from the fireballs released by the propane burners was impressive and intense. Though the balloons were unable to launch as planned, the audience appreciated the impromptu and unique entertainment.
 

[Stephanie Hall]