From a small gathering of 13 balloons in 1972, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has grown to become the largest balloon event in the world. Held each year during the first week in October, the Balloon Fiesta now features about 600 balloons and 700 pilots.
By 1978 Albuquerque was playing host to 273 entries. The number of balloons steadily increased, with 600 in 1988 and 903 balloons in 1999.
We woke up early (4:45 am) to take a short shuttle ride to the launch area for the dawn patrol. These balloons launch before sun up.
Then at sunrise the masses start filling their balloons.
Mark linked up with a balloonist from South Dakota. He answered a bunch of questions and let mark photograph the inside of his balloons.
When you attend the launch, you can walk around the balloons, touch the fabric and feel the heat of the burners.
Hot air balloons range in cost from $50,000 to &100,000.
Rows ascend together and they are a visual wonder! Seriously, sensory overload.
Your neck gets tired of looking up and you realize that you have been smiling for two hours!
We stayed to watch the competition. Balloons drop a small sand bag and have to hit various targets for prize money. Grand prize is $10,000.
Each day features a different theme. Tomorrow features balloons from foreign counties and the next day - all the shapes. Looking forward to the next couple of days because you just can’t see them all in one day!
No comments:
Post a Comment