Sunday, October 12, 2003
America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race Results Now Official
Three American Teams Qualify For 2004 Coupe Aèronautique Gordon Bennett
Albuquerque, NM – Oct. 12, 2003 – 3:49 PM – [AIBF] The Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta came to a congenial end Saturday evening, October 11, with toasts, trophies, and the announcement of the final official results:
1. Abruzzo, Richard / Rymer-Davis, Carol, USA, Iron River, WI, 1110.89 mi, 1787.72 KM, 63.23 hours
2. Fricke, Barbara / Cuneo, Peter, USA, NNE of Mora, MN, 1023.57 mi.,1647.20 KM, 63.12 hours
3. Eimers, Wilhelm / Winker, Greg , Germany/USA, Bruceville Eddy, TX, 580.57mi,. 934.29 KM, 49.15 hours
4. Sullivan, Mark / White, Cheri, USA, Bovine, TX, 221.58 mi., 356.58 KM, 24.90 hours
5. MacNutt, Phillip / Critelli, Brian, USA, Clovis, NM, 205.53 mi., 330.76 km, 21.88 hours
6. Hale, Bruce / Devaney, Mark, USA, Broadview, NM, 200.69 mi., 322.96 KM, 24.73 hours
7. Parks, Sam / Cayton, Andy, USA, Clovis, NM, 195.23 mi., 314.17 KM, 24.95 hours
8. Boylan, Thomas / McCluskey, Bob, USA, Portales, NM, 192.45 mi., 309.70 KM, 25.80 hours
9. Levin, David / Levin, Alan, USA, Grady, NM, 189.52 mi., 304.99 KM, 25.47 hours
10. Kugler, John / Sheeshe, “Red”, USA, Portales, NM, 184.06 mi., 296.20 KM, 20.85 hours
11. Petrehn, Johnny / Sabin, Richard, USA, Logan, NM, 173.33 mi., 278.94 KM, 26.63 hours
12. Gerhardt, Astrid / Mueller, Stephan, Germany, Roswell, NM, 169.92 mi., 273.45 KM, 17.70 hours
13. Donnelly, Tom / Forse, Simon, UK, Santa Rosa, NM, 110.59 mi., 177.96 KM, 25.22 hours
14. Robinson, Shane / Martin, Ron, USA, Ft. Sumner, NM, 88.24 mi., 142.00 KM, 13.77 hours
Penalties:
Eimers/Winker: 2% of greatest distance, Rule 7.2 Reporting
Robinson/Martin: 5% of greatest distance, Rule 9.3 Pilot Responsibility
The top three U.S. pilots qualify to compete in the Coupe Aèronautique Gordon Bennett next year.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
Albuquerque, NM – Oct. 12, 2003 – 3:49 PM – [AIBF] The Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta came to a congenial end Saturday evening, October 11, with toasts, trophies, and the announcement of the final official results:
1. Abruzzo, Richard / Rymer-Davis, Carol, USA, Iron River, WI, 1110.89 mi, 1787.72 KM, 63.23 hours
2. Fricke, Barbara / Cuneo, Peter, USA, NNE of Mora, MN, 1023.57 mi.,1647.20 KM, 63.12 hours
3. Eimers, Wilhelm / Winker, Greg , Germany/USA, Bruceville Eddy, TX, 580.57mi,. 934.29 KM, 49.15 hours
4. Sullivan, Mark / White, Cheri, USA, Bovine, TX, 221.58 mi., 356.58 KM, 24.90 hours
5. MacNutt, Phillip / Critelli, Brian, USA, Clovis, NM, 205.53 mi., 330.76 km, 21.88 hours
6. Hale, Bruce / Devaney, Mark, USA, Broadview, NM, 200.69 mi., 322.96 KM, 24.73 hours
7. Parks, Sam / Cayton, Andy, USA, Clovis, NM, 195.23 mi., 314.17 KM, 24.95 hours
8. Boylan, Thomas / McCluskey, Bob, USA, Portales, NM, 192.45 mi., 309.70 KM, 25.80 hours
9. Levin, David / Levin, Alan, USA, Grady, NM, 189.52 mi., 304.99 KM, 25.47 hours
10. Kugler, John / Sheeshe, “Red”, USA, Portales, NM, 184.06 mi., 296.20 KM, 20.85 hours
11. Petrehn, Johnny / Sabin, Richard, USA, Logan, NM, 173.33 mi., 278.94 KM, 26.63 hours
12. Gerhardt, Astrid / Mueller, Stephan, Germany, Roswell, NM, 169.92 mi., 273.45 KM, 17.70 hours
13. Donnelly, Tom / Forse, Simon, UK, Santa Rosa, NM, 110.59 mi., 177.96 KM, 25.22 hours
14. Robinson, Shane / Martin, Ron, USA, Ft. Sumner, NM, 88.24 mi., 142.00 KM, 13.77 hours
Penalties:
Eimers/Winker: 2% of greatest distance, Rule 7.2 Reporting
Robinson/Martin: 5% of greatest distance, Rule 9.3 Pilot Responsibility
The top three U.S. pilots qualify to compete in the Coupe Aèronautique Gordon Bennett next year.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
Gas Balloon Race Suspense Over - Unofficial Winners Declared
America's Challenge Ends With American Team Going the Greatest Distance
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 1:20 PM MT - At 1:03 PM today Balloon Fiesta officials announced that the American Team of Richard Abruzzo, and Carol Rymer-Davis had landed around 8:25 AM after flying 1,100 miles. They landed safely about 40 miles SE of Duluth, just short of Lake Superior.
The Fricke/Cuneo team, also from America, flew 1,020 miles from Albuquerque to land safely shortly after 8:30 AM near Hinckley, Minnesota, Southwest of Duluth and North of Minneapolis.
The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker finished third, landing near Waco, Texas late yesterday afternoon. The American team of Mark Sullivan (Balloon Fiesta board member and creator of this prestigious event) and Cheri White are the apparent fourth-place winners.
If declared official, this will be Richard Abruzzo's third America's Challenge victory. In 1995 Abruzzo won the first America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, flying 1,393 miles in 60.2 hours. His co-pilot for that year was David Melton. Abruzzo won for the second time in 1997 when he teamed with Jacob Traub to fly 910.5 miles and 45.7 hours.
Fricke and Cuneo won the 2001 America's Challenge with Cuneo as the pilot in command.
The top three American pilots to place in the America's Challenge qualify to compete in next year's Coupe Aèronautique Gordon Bennett, the world's premier gas balloon competition. The Gordon Bennett is traditionally held in the home country of the previous year's winner. On September 16, the French team of brothers Jean-François and Vincent LEYS won the 2003 Gordon Bennett after flying over 50 hours. The French brothers also won the Gordon Bennett in 1997, 2001 and 2002.
Results for this year will not become official until Challenge race judges have the opportunity to review all flight data. This should happen sometime Saturday, October 11. Official results will be posted on the Balloon Fiesta web site at balloonfiesta.com.
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 1:20 PM MT - At 1:03 PM today Balloon Fiesta officials announced that the American Team of Richard Abruzzo, and Carol Rymer-Davis had landed around 8:25 AM after flying 1,100 miles. They landed safely about 40 miles SE of Duluth, just short of Lake Superior.
The Fricke/Cuneo team, also from America, flew 1,020 miles from Albuquerque to land safely shortly after 8:30 AM near Hinckley, Minnesota, Southwest of Duluth and North of Minneapolis.
The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker finished third, landing near Waco, Texas late yesterday afternoon. The American team of Mark Sullivan (Balloon Fiesta board member and creator of this prestigious event) and Cheri White are the apparent fourth-place winners.
If declared official, this will be Richard Abruzzo's third America's Challenge victory. In 1995 Abruzzo won the first America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, flying 1,393 miles in 60.2 hours. His co-pilot for that year was David Melton. Abruzzo won for the second time in 1997 when he teamed with Jacob Traub to fly 910.5 miles and 45.7 hours.
Fricke and Cuneo won the 2001 America's Challenge with Cuneo as the pilot in command.
The top three American pilots to place in the America's Challenge qualify to compete in next year's Coupe Aèronautique Gordon Bennett, the world's premier gas balloon competition. The Gordon Bennett is traditionally held in the home country of the previous year's winner. On September 16, the French team of brothers Jean-François and Vincent LEYS won the 2003 Gordon Bennett after flying over 50 hours. The French brothers also won the Gordon Bennett in 1997, 2001 and 2002.
Results for this year will not become official until Challenge race judges have the opportunity to review all flight data. This should happen sometime Saturday, October 11. Official results will be posted on the Balloon Fiesta web site at balloonfiesta.com.
Another Team Has Landed in Challenge Race
Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis Team Assumed Challenge Winners
Albuquerque, NM – Oct. 8, 2003 – 12:30 PM MT – At 10:30 AM this morning Kim Vesley, AIBF spokesperson for the Challenge Race reported that the Fricke/Cuneo team had landed near Hinckley, Minnesota. An hour later Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations, confirmed the team had landed after flying over 60 hours and 1,020 miles from their Challenge launch site. Peter Cuneo reported to the Command Center that they had a safe landing and a great flight.
She added that the last reported position for the Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis team was about 40 miles East, Southeast of Duluth, a distance of approximately 1,100 miles. Officials assume Team 4 is still flying. If they stay aloft past 1:00 PM MT, they will break the Challenge Race duration record of 67 hours.
According the last map renderings by the Balloon Fiesta’s Live Tracker service at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, the Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis team was tracked in Wisconsin, due east of Gravel Pit Road in Bayfield County. They appeared to be approximately 25 miles South of Lake Superior, South of Ino and West of Benoit. The Live Tracker service stopped tracking the contestants around the same time the Fricke/Cuneo team landed.
Albuquerque, NM – Oct. 8, 2003 – 12:30 PM MT – At 10:30 AM this morning Kim Vesley, AIBF spokesperson for the Challenge Race reported that the Fricke/Cuneo team had landed near Hinckley, Minnesota. An hour later Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations, confirmed the team had landed after flying over 60 hours and 1,020 miles from their Challenge launch site. Peter Cuneo reported to the Command Center that they had a safe landing and a great flight.
She added that the last reported position for the Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis team was about 40 miles East, Southeast of Duluth, a distance of approximately 1,100 miles. Officials assume Team 4 is still flying. If they stay aloft past 1:00 PM MT, they will break the Challenge Race duration record of 67 hours.
According the last map renderings by the Balloon Fiesta’s Live Tracker service at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, the Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis team was tracked in Wisconsin, due east of Gravel Pit Road in Bayfield County. They appeared to be approximately 25 miles South of Lake Superior, South of Ino and West of Benoit. The Live Tracker service stopped tracking the contestants around the same time the Fricke/Cuneo team landed.
Flight of the Nations Event Officially Cancelled
The "International" Celebration of Fiesta Heritage Rained Out
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 6:43 AM MT - Fiesta officials have just announced the Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension originally scheduled for today will not be added to tomorrow's event line up.
One of the more popular Fiesta traditions, the Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension honors pilots from all the nations participating in the Balloon Fiesta. The ascension begins with flights by each country’s pilot representative. Participating pilots fly their nation’s flag from their balloon baskets and launch as their country’s national anthem is played.
It is currently raining at Balloon Fiesta Park. Weather is around 55 degrees. Fiesta officials remain optimistic for pulling off tomorrow's special shape mass ascension.
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 6:43 AM MT - Fiesta officials have just announced the Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension originally scheduled for today will not be added to tomorrow's event line up.
One of the more popular Fiesta traditions, the Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension honors pilots from all the nations participating in the Balloon Fiesta. The ascension begins with flights by each country’s pilot representative. Participating pilots fly their nation’s flag from their balloon baskets and launch as their country’s national anthem is played.
It is currently raining at Balloon Fiesta Park. Weather is around 55 degrees. Fiesta officials remain optimistic for pulling off tomorrow's special shape mass ascension.
Day Four of Balloon Fiesta Aimed to Win with 21
Start of Field Competitions at the Great Motion Picture Show
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 6:22 AM MT - [AIBF] Yesterday, the fourth day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, was the first day of exciting field competition at the Great Motion Picture Show.
LIGHTS
Dawn Patrol launched in the dark early hours of Tuesday morning. The Dawn Patrol began at Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off in the dark and fly until it is light enough to see landing sites. Fellow balloonists appreciate the Dawn Patrol because they can watch the balloons and get an early idea of wind speeds and directions at different altitudes. On mass ascension days, about a dozen Dawn Patrol balloons perform the Dawn Patrol Show, a choreographed inflation and launch set to music that has been part of the Balloon Fiesta since 1996. Dawn Patrol inflations begin, weather permitting, at about 5:45 a.m., with launch around 6:15 a.m.
CAMERA
Once the sun was up, pilots readied their balloons for the day's events. Competitions at Balloon Fiesta would not be possible without our producers (a.k.a. corporate sponsors). Tuesday's events were the New Mexico Challenge Hot Air Balloon Race sponsored by Contractors Bonding Ltd and Sandia Casino's Blackjack Race. The executive producer for the day was the Coca Cola Company.
ACTION
It's a little hard to line balloons up on the starting line and have them race to the finish, but balloonists are inventive folks and have come up with some interesting forms of competition. Tuesday was a great day for flying competitions. The day's first event, the New Mexico Challenge, is similar to the America's Challenge gas race in that the winner is the balloon that flies the furthest without breaking any rules. The New Mexico Challenge became part of the Fiesta about five years ago and is open to all Fiesta pilots. Balloons compete in three size classes. These flights take a lot of planning in determining how much propane to carry and what strategies to use to, for example, get around or over the Sandia Mountains. Previous New Mexico Challenge winners have landed as far away as the area south of Las Vegas, New Mexico.
The day's second event, Sandia Casino's Blackjack, truly tested the pilots flying skills. In a ballooning competition, pilots must use the winds at different altitudes to steer the balloon to a target—usually a big "X" on the ground. The pilot then drops a marker from the balloon so that it lands as close to the center of the target as possible. Closest drop wins. On competition days, some balloons take off at Balloon Fiesta Park and fly to targets located north or south of the launch site. Other balloons launch at least a mile away from Balloon Fiesta Park and fly to targets at the park. The overall competition winners are determined by individual pilots' scores over all competition events flown during Fiesta week. The Sandia Casino Blackjack race uses a similar premise, but pilots must drop two markers on giant playing cards laid out on the field and score as close to "21" as possible.
CAN I HAVE THE ENVELOPE PLEASE
Winners for all Balloon Fiesta competitions will be announced on Sunday.
NOTE TO THE PAPARAZZI
During flying competitions, balloons fly very low to the ground. In order to ensure everyone's safety, spectators, including members of the media, are not allowed on the field during competition. Registered media, who wish to take photographs from the playing field, must gather at the southeast corner of the field by the yellow "Media" flag. Balloon Fiesta volunteers will escort photographers onto the field on a first-come, first-serve basis in 10-minute increments.
Due to wet conditions on the field, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has cancelled this morning's Mass Ascension Flight of the Nations sponsored by Continental Airlines & Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort. Join us Thursday morning for the Wells Fargo Special Shape Mass Ascension and Thursday evening for the Wells Fargo Special Shape Glowdeo and AfterGlow Fireworks Show presented by the Albuquerque Journal.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - 6:22 AM MT - [AIBF] Yesterday, the fourth day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, was the first day of exciting field competition at the Great Motion Picture Show.
LIGHTS
Dawn Patrol launched in the dark early hours of Tuesday morning. The Dawn Patrol began at Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off in the dark and fly until it is light enough to see landing sites. Fellow balloonists appreciate the Dawn Patrol because they can watch the balloons and get an early idea of wind speeds and directions at different altitudes. On mass ascension days, about a dozen Dawn Patrol balloons perform the Dawn Patrol Show, a choreographed inflation and launch set to music that has been part of the Balloon Fiesta since 1996. Dawn Patrol inflations begin, weather permitting, at about 5:45 a.m., with launch around 6:15 a.m.
CAMERA
Once the sun was up, pilots readied their balloons for the day's events. Competitions at Balloon Fiesta would not be possible without our producers (a.k.a. corporate sponsors). Tuesday's events were the New Mexico Challenge Hot Air Balloon Race sponsored by Contractors Bonding Ltd and Sandia Casino's Blackjack Race. The executive producer for the day was the Coca Cola Company.
ACTION
It's a little hard to line balloons up on the starting line and have them race to the finish, but balloonists are inventive folks and have come up with some interesting forms of competition. Tuesday was a great day for flying competitions. The day's first event, the New Mexico Challenge, is similar to the America's Challenge gas race in that the winner is the balloon that flies the furthest without breaking any rules. The New Mexico Challenge became part of the Fiesta about five years ago and is open to all Fiesta pilots. Balloons compete in three size classes. These flights take a lot of planning in determining how much propane to carry and what strategies to use to, for example, get around or over the Sandia Mountains. Previous New Mexico Challenge winners have landed as far away as the area south of Las Vegas, New Mexico.
The day's second event, Sandia Casino's Blackjack, truly tested the pilots flying skills. In a ballooning competition, pilots must use the winds at different altitudes to steer the balloon to a target—usually a big "X" on the ground. The pilot then drops a marker from the balloon so that it lands as close to the center of the target as possible. Closest drop wins. On competition days, some balloons take off at Balloon Fiesta Park and fly to targets located north or south of the launch site. Other balloons launch at least a mile away from Balloon Fiesta Park and fly to targets at the park. The overall competition winners are determined by individual pilots' scores over all competition events flown during Fiesta week. The Sandia Casino Blackjack race uses a similar premise, but pilots must drop two markers on giant playing cards laid out on the field and score as close to "21" as possible.
CAN I HAVE THE ENVELOPE PLEASE
Winners for all Balloon Fiesta competitions will be announced on Sunday.
NOTE TO THE PAPARAZZI
During flying competitions, balloons fly very low to the ground. In order to ensure everyone's safety, spectators, including members of the media, are not allowed on the field during competition. Registered media, who wish to take photographs from the playing field, must gather at the southeast corner of the field by the yellow "Media" flag. Balloon Fiesta volunteers will escort photographers onto the field on a first-come, first-serve basis in 10-minute increments.
Due to wet conditions on the field, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has cancelled this morning's Mass Ascension Flight of the Nations sponsored by Continental Airlines & Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort. Join us Thursday morning for the Wells Fargo Special Shape Mass Ascension and Thursday evening for the Wells Fargo Special Shape Glowdeo and AfterGlow Fireworks Show presented by the Albuquerque Journal.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
Balloon Fiesta Events Cancelled for Wednesday Morning, October 8
Wet Field and Rainy Weather Conditions Ground Today's Flying Events
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - Due to wet conditions on the field, Fiesta Officials called off the flying events for today. While the rains have stopped, the field is sopping wet and more rain is expected throughout the day. Balloon Fiesta Park remains open for shoppers.
Officials, optimistic the rains will break for tomorrow's events, are currently juggling tomorrow's schedule line up. Their tentative plan is to include the Flight of the Nations event (cancelled for today) after the special shapes mass ascension.
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 8, 2003 - Due to wet conditions on the field, Fiesta Officials called off the flying events for today. While the rains have stopped, the field is sopping wet and more rain is expected throughout the day. Balloon Fiesta Park remains open for shoppers.
Officials, optimistic the rains will break for tomorrow's events, are currently juggling tomorrow's schedule line up. Their tentative plan is to include the Flight of the Nations event (cancelled for today) after the special shapes mass ascension.
Tuesday, October 07, 2003
Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis Take The Lead in Challenge Race
Less Than 15 Miles Between Top Two Contenders
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 8:30 PM MT the American team of Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) are in the lead by almost 15 miles. Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team 6) are just east of U.S. 281 in northeastern Nebraska. The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2) have dropped to third place. According to the 8:30 live tracker results, their balloon was still over Interstate 35 in Texas and had moved less than a mile in the past hour. It’s possible they have landed. You be the judge. Tracker results for 8:30 and 7:30 PM follow for comparison.
Live Tracker Stats as of 8:30 PM MT:
651.37 mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
636.55 mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
601.21 mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
---------------------------------------------------
Live Tracker Stats as of 7:30 PM MT:
623.90 mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
600.69 mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
552.60 mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
It’s shortly after 9:00 PM, 55 degrees and still raining in Albuquerque. Thunderstorms and scattered rains are forecast for tomorrow. The 9:00 PM tracker shows Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis still in the lead at 669.52 miles. The mileage reported for Eimers/Winker remains at 601.21 miles.
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com); weather updates from the National Weather Service, reporting by Barb Tomlin.
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 8:30 PM MT the American team of Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) are in the lead by almost 15 miles. Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team 6) are just east of U.S. 281 in northeastern Nebraska. The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2) have dropped to third place. According to the 8:30 live tracker results, their balloon was still over Interstate 35 in Texas and had moved less than a mile in the past hour. It’s possible they have landed. You be the judge. Tracker results for 8:30 and 7:30 PM follow for comparison.
Live Tracker Stats as of 8:30 PM MT:
651.37 mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
636.55 mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
601.21 mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
---------------------------------------------------
Live Tracker Stats as of 7:30 PM MT:
623.90 mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
600.69 mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
552.60 mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
It’s shortly after 9:00 PM, 55 degrees and still raining in Albuquerque. Thunderstorms and scattered rains are forecast for tomorrow. The 9:00 PM tracker shows Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis still in the lead at 669.52 miles. The mileage reported for Eimers/Winker remains at 601.21 miles.
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com); weather updates from the National Weather Service, reporting by Barb Tomlin.
Less than 60 Miles Separate America’s Challenge Contenders
A Close Race Gets Closer As America's Challenge Continues
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - [AIBF] 4:45pm MT - The America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race is headed into its third day, and the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2) remains in front – but not by much. They’ve now traveled 572 miles and are nearing Waco, TX. The other two remaining teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) have now crossed northward into Nebraska and are cutting into Team #2’s lead. Abruzzo/Davis are only about 35 miles behind Eimers/Winker now, and Fricke/Cuneo only about 25 miles behind them.
At the final pilot briefing before the balloons took off on Sunday, weather forecasters John Ground and Randy LeFevre projected two potential tracks for competitors still flying after the 24-hour mark in the race. One headed generally southeast through Texas, the other northward through Nebraska. The current tracks of the balloons bear out the accuracy of that forecast.
Weather in both areas where the balloons are flying is good. It’s raining in Albuquerque (and we need the rain), but there are no nighttime events scheduled at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Here is a list of the America’s Challenge competitors and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:00 PM MDT (2200Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 40 mi. WSW of Waco, TX, 572 mi/921 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 20 mi. SSW of Kearney, NE, 538 mi/886 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 45 mi SSW of Kearney, NE, 514 mi/827 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
Shortly, the competitors will have to make the decision to land or to remain in the air overnight. You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloons’ positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - [AIBF] 4:45pm MT - The America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race is headed into its third day, and the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2) remains in front – but not by much. They’ve now traveled 572 miles and are nearing Waco, TX. The other two remaining teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) have now crossed northward into Nebraska and are cutting into Team #2’s lead. Abruzzo/Davis are only about 35 miles behind Eimers/Winker now, and Fricke/Cuneo only about 25 miles behind them.
At the final pilot briefing before the balloons took off on Sunday, weather forecasters John Ground and Randy LeFevre projected two potential tracks for competitors still flying after the 24-hour mark in the race. One headed generally southeast through Texas, the other northward through Nebraska. The current tracks of the balloons bear out the accuracy of that forecast.
Weather in both areas where the balloons are flying is good. It’s raining in Albuquerque (and we need the rain), but there are no nighttime events scheduled at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Here is a list of the America’s Challenge competitors and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:00 PM MDT (2200Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 40 mi. WSW of Waco, TX, 572 mi/921 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 20 mi. SSW of Kearney, NE, 538 mi/886 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 45 mi SSW of Kearney, NE, 514 mi/827 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
Shortly, the competitors will have to make the decision to land or to remain in the air overnight. You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloons’ positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Gas Balloon Race Leaders Being Challenged
German/American Team Retain Lead By 28 Miles
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 4:00 PM MT the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2), stretch to retain their lead in the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race. Team 4, Americans Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis, has quickened its pace to take over the lead. Less than 10 miles separate Team 4 from taking over first position.
Not to be discounted is the progress of Team 6, comprised of Amerians Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo. Since our last report, they have moved eastward ll miles, maneuvering their balloon into position to challenge the leaders.
Gas Ballon Race Stats as of 4:00 PM MT:
Eimers/Winker (EW) 568.93mi
Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (AR) 539.27mi
Fricke/Cuneo (FC) 515.68mi
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com)
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 4:00 PM MT the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2), stretch to retain their lead in the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race. Team 4, Americans Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis, has quickened its pace to take over the lead. Less than 10 miles separate Team 4 from taking over first position.
Not to be discounted is the progress of Team 6, comprised of Amerians Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo. Since our last report, they have moved eastward ll miles, maneuvering their balloon into position to challenge the leaders.
Gas Ballon Race Stats as of 4:00 PM MT:
Eimers/Winker (EW) 568.93mi
Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (AR) 539.27mi
Fricke/Cuneo (FC) 515.68mi
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com)
Eimers/Winker Continue America's Challenge Lead By 34 Miles
German/American Team Headed Toward Waco
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 3:00 PM MT the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2), continue to lead the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race. The Eimers/Winker team has logged most of their 550 miles in Texas. They are currently navigating their balloon northeast of the intersection of U.S. 281 (N/S) and U.S.84, headed toward Waco. The American team of Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) trail the leader by approximately 34 miles. Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are tracking near the northwestern border of Kansas, having logged only 14 miles fewer than Team 4.
Live Tracker Stats as of 3:00 PM MT:
550.85mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
516.47mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
494.02mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com)
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - As of 3:00 PM MT the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team 2), continue to lead the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race. The Eimers/Winker team has logged most of their 550 miles in Texas. They are currently navigating their balloon northeast of the intersection of U.S. 281 (N/S) and U.S.84, headed toward Waco. The American team of Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) trail the leader by approximately 34 miles. Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are tracking near the northwestern border of Kansas, having logged only 14 miles fewer than Team 4.
Live Tracker Stats as of 3:00 PM MT:
550.85mi - Eimers/Winker (Team 2)
516.47mi - Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis (Team 4)
494.02mi - Fricke/Cuneo (Team 6)
Source: Live tracking data from http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com, provided by Steve Dimse (findu.com)
America's Challenge Leaders Near 500-Mile Mark
Eimers/Winker Hold Their Lead
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), remains in the lead of the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race at the 42-hour mark. They’re headed east from the vicinity of Abilene, Texas and have now traveled nearly 500 miles (775 km). The other two remaining teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are tracking northward through Kansas and are still nearly neck and neck.
It’s drizzling in Albuquerque after a beautiful morning of competition flying, but the weather in the areas where the America’s Challenge balloons are flying is generally favorable – much better than the weather yesterday.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of
11:00 AM MDT (1700Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 125 mi. W of Waco, TX, 482 mi/775 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 55 mi. WSW of Hays, KS, 420 mi/676 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 73 mi. SW of Liberal, KS, 403 mi/649 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km #1
Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at
http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloon
positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), remains in the lead of the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race at the 42-hour mark. They’re headed east from the vicinity of Abilene, Texas and have now traveled nearly 500 miles (775 km). The other two remaining teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are tracking northward through Kansas and are still nearly neck and neck.
It’s drizzling in Albuquerque after a beautiful morning of competition flying, but the weather in the areas where the America’s Challenge balloons are flying is generally favorable – much better than the weather yesterday.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of
11:00 AM MDT (1700Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 125 mi. W of Waco, TX, 482 mi/775 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 55 mi. WSW of Hays, KS, 420 mi/676 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 73 mi. SW of Liberal, KS, 403 mi/649 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km #1
Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at
http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloon
positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Balloon Fiesta Day Three Deserves a Razzie!
Strong Winds Postponed New Mexico Challenge, Canceled Monday's Black Jack Competition
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - Yesterday, the third day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, strong winds postponed the New Mexico Challenge Hot Air Balloon Race and canceled the morning’s Black Jack competition.
"Safety is our top priority," said Paul Smith, executive director of the Balloon Fiesta. "Although pilots were given the green light to fly at their own discretion, strong winds compelled us to cancel the competition and postpone the race until Tuesday."
The Golden Raspberry Awards, also know as "Razzies," recognize Hollywood's biggest flops. We believe day three of our Great Motion Picture Show deserves to win a Razzie. Monday will take its place among such well-know movies as Ishtar, The Postman and Hudson Hawk.
But this does not discourage us. True to Hollywood fashion, actors and directors follow a miss with a huge hit (Rain Man, Thirteen Days, Pulp Fiction). Tuesday is feeling like an Oscar winner—see you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 7, 2003 - Yesterday, the third day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, strong winds postponed the New Mexico Challenge Hot Air Balloon Race and canceled the morning’s Black Jack competition.
"Safety is our top priority," said Paul Smith, executive director of the Balloon Fiesta. "Although pilots were given the green light to fly at their own discretion, strong winds compelled us to cancel the competition and postpone the race until Tuesday."
The Golden Raspberry Awards, also know as "Razzies," recognize Hollywood's biggest flops. We believe day three of our Great Motion Picture Show deserves to win a Razzie. Monday will take its place among such well-know movies as Ishtar, The Postman and Hudson Hawk.
But this does not discourage us. True to Hollywood fashion, actors and directors follow a miss with a huge hit (Rain Man, Thirteen Days, Pulp Fiction). Tuesday is feeling like an Oscar winner—see you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
America's Challenge Race Passes 36-Hour Mark
Three Balloons Flying, 11 Landed Safely in America's Challenge
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 7, 2003 — Only three competitors remain aloft this morning as the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race passes the 36-hour mark. Eleven balloons landed safely in New Mexico and west Texas, with most of those landing around sunset yesterday (10/06).
The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), continues to lead. At 4:30 AM, they were near Abilene TX. Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) are WNW of Liberal, KS, and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are south of Liberal.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:30 AM MDT (1030Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 35 mi. W of Abilene, TX, 407 mi/420 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 35 mi. WNW of Liberal, KS, 300 mi/482 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 73 mi. SW of Liberal, KS, 285 mi/458 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km #1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
As the sun rises in the central United States, the strategies afoot will start to play out. You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloon positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 7, 2003 — Only three competitors remain aloft this morning as the Eighth America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race passes the 36-hour mark. Eleven balloons landed safely in New Mexico and west Texas, with most of those landing around sunset yesterday (10/06).
The German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), continues to lead. At 4:30 AM, they were near Abilene TX. Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4) are WNW of Liberal, KS, and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) are south of Liberal.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:30 AM MDT (1030Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 35 mi. W of Abilene, TX, 407 mi/420 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 35 mi. WNW of Liberal, KS, 300 mi/482 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 73 mi. SW of Liberal, KS, 285 mi/458 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km #1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
As the sun rises in the central United States, the strategies afoot will start to play out. You can watch the action unfold via live tracking at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. The tracker updates the balloon positions every half-hour, and displays weather conditions in the area.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Eleven Balloons Have Landed in Gas Balloon Race
Three Balloons Still Flying as America's Challenge Continues
Albuquerque, NM. — Oct. 6, 2003 — Only three competitors are flying through the night as the America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race continues into its second day. Eleven balloons landed safely in New Mexico and west Texas.
The three remaining competitors are the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), and two American teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4), and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6). Team #2 currently leads, having flown 261 miles (420 km). Team #6 has flown 256 miles (412 km) and Team #4 208 miles (334 km). However, three of the balloons that have landed have flown a greater distance than Team #4, so that team is currently 6th despite the fact that they are still flying.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 9:15 PM MDT (0315Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 28 mi. NNW of Lubbock, TX, 261 mi/420 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 33 mi. SW of Amarillo, TX, 256 mi/412 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 65 mi. NW of Amarillo, TX, 208 mi/334 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM. — Oct. 6, 2003 — Only three competitors are flying through the night as the America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race continues into its second day. Eleven balloons landed safely in New Mexico and west Texas.
The three remaining competitors are the German/American team of Willie Eimers and Greg Winker (Team #2), and two American teams, Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team #4), and Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6). Team #2 currently leads, having flown 261 miles (420 km). Team #6 has flown 256 miles (412 km) and Team #4 208 miles (334 km). However, three of the balloons that have landed have flown a greater distance than Team #4, so that team is currently 6th despite the fact that they are still flying.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 9:15 PM MDT (0315Z):
#2 Eimers/Winker, 28 mi. NNW of Lubbock, TX, 261 mi/420 km
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 33 mi. SW of Amarillo, TX, 256 mi/412 km
#13 Sullivan/White, LANDED 24 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 243 mi/391 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, LANDED 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 215 mi/347 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, LANDED 12 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 209 mi/336 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 65 mi. NW of Amarillo, TX, 208 mi/334 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, LANDED 18 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/334 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, LANDED 5 mi. NW of Portales, NM, 204 mi/328 km
#8 Levin/Levin, LANDED 30 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, LANDED 5 mi. SW of Logan, NM, 175 mi/282 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, LANDED 4 mi. S of Santa Rosa, NM, 133 mi/214 km
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Monday, October 06, 2003
Third Balloon Lands in Gas Balloon Race
Competitors Cluster Around Clovis as America's Challenge Continues
Albuquerque, NM — Oct. 6, 2003 — As of 5:47 PM MT the Eighth America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive ever as the 11 balloons still aloft reach the 24-hour mark after launch. Three balloons have now landed. Team #5, John Kugler and "Red" Sheeshe, was the latest to land, touching down about 30 miles SW of Clovis, NM approaching mid-afternoon.
The current lead is held by Team #6, Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo. They're headed east across the Texas Panhandle. Many of the competitors are currently clustered in the area of Clovis, NM. Teams continue to watch the weather in southeastern NM and into Texas and to plan strategy to take the best advantage of wind conditions. The balloons and the Command Center are continuing to monitor thunderstorm activity to the south and east of the balloons' positions.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:15 MDT (2315Z):
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 60 mi. ENE of Clovis, NM, 247 mi/397 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, 40 mi. SSE of Clovis, NM, 220 mi/354 km
#13 Sullivan/White, 5 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/335 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 206 mi/331 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 50 mi. NNE of Clovis, NM, 201 mi/323 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, 10 mi. NE of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, 25 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 194 mi/313 km
#2 Eimers/Winker, Over Clovis, NM, 194 mi/313 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, 20 mi. W of Clovis, NM, 170 mi/274 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#8 Levin/Levin, 35 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 166 mi/267 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, 20 mi. SSW of Santa Rosa, NM, 143 mi/229 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM — Oct. 6, 2003 — As of 5:47 PM MT the Eighth America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive ever as the 11 balloons still aloft reach the 24-hour mark after launch. Three balloons have now landed. Team #5, John Kugler and "Red" Sheeshe, was the latest to land, touching down about 30 miles SW of Clovis, NM approaching mid-afternoon.
The current lead is held by Team #6, Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo. They're headed east across the Texas Panhandle. Many of the competitors are currently clustered in the area of Clovis, NM. Teams continue to watch the weather in southeastern NM and into Texas and to plan strategy to take the best advantage of wind conditions. The balloons and the Command Center are continuing to monitor thunderstorm activity to the south and east of the balloons' positions.
Here is a list of the balloons and their approximate, unofficial positions as of 4:15 MDT (2315Z):
#6 Fricke/Cuneo, 60 mi. ENE of Clovis, NM, 247 mi/397 km
#12 Boylan/McCluskey, 40 mi. SSE of Clovis, NM, 220 mi/354 km
#13 Sullivan/White, 5 mi. E of Clovis, NM, 208 mi/335 km
#14 MacNutt/Critelli, 5 mi. SE of Clovis, NM, 206 mi/331 km
#4 Abruzzo/Rymer-Davis, 50 mi. NNE of Clovis, NM, 201 mi/323 km
#7 Hale/Devaney, 10 mi. NE of Clovis, NM, 200 mi/322 km
#1 Petrhen/Sabin, 25 mi. N of Clovis, NM, 194 mi/313 km
#2 Eimers/Winker, Over Clovis, NM, 194 mi/313 km
#5 Kugler/Sheeshe, LANDED 30 mi. SW of Clovis, NM, 184 mi/296 km
#9 Parks/Cayton, 20 mi. W of Clovis, NM, 170 mi/274 km
#10 Gerhardt/Muller, LANDED 15 mi. NE of Roswell, NM, 169 mi/272 km
#8 Levin/Levin, 35 mi. NW of Clovis, NM, 166 mi/267 km
#3 Donnelly/Forse, 20 mi. SSW of Santa Rosa, NM, 143 mi/229 km
#11 Robinson/Martin, LANDED 50 miles N of Roswell, NM, 143 mi/230 km
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Two Land in Gas Balloon Race; Hot Air Balloon Race Rescheduled
High Winds Challenge Ballooning Competitions
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 6, 2003 - As of 11:30 AM MDT (1830Z), the teams of Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) and Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) have both traveled about 200 miles (approx. 325 km) and are northeast of Clovis, NM and entering the state of Texas. Several other balloons are headed eastward through the east-central portion of NM, generally in the area east of Vaughn and west of Clovis.
Two teams have landed safely. Team #11, Shane Robinson and Ron Martin, landed early this morning about 50 miles north of Roswell, NM. Team #10, Astred Gerhardt and Stephan Muller, landed about 10:00 AM MDT (1700Z) about 15 miles NE of Roswell.
As expected, this is shaping up to be a strategic contest, with pilots trying to position their balloons for the best track to ultimately travel the longest distance. It should be a fascinating flight to the finish for the remaining 12 competitors.
For real-time tracking of the balloons as the competition continues, visit http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php.
Higher winds this morning delayed the New Mexico Challenge hot air balloon race until tomorrow morning. Many balloons still launched from the field.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 6, 2003 - As of 11:30 AM MDT (1830Z), the teams of Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo (Team #6) and Richard Abruzzo and Carol Rymer-Davis (Team 4) have both traveled about 200 miles (approx. 325 km) and are northeast of Clovis, NM and entering the state of Texas. Several other balloons are headed eastward through the east-central portion of NM, generally in the area east of Vaughn and west of Clovis.
Two teams have landed safely. Team #11, Shane Robinson and Ron Martin, landed early this morning about 50 miles north of Roswell, NM. Team #10, Astred Gerhardt and Stephan Muller, landed about 10:00 AM MDT (1700Z) about 15 miles NE of Roswell.
As expected, this is shaping up to be a strategic contest, with pilots trying to position their balloons for the best track to ultimately travel the longest distance. It should be a fascinating flight to the finish for the remaining 12 competitors.
For real-time tracking of the balloons as the competition continues, visit http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php.
Higher winds this morning delayed the New Mexico Challenge hot air balloon race until tomorrow morning. Many balloons still launched from the field.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Day Two of Balloon Fiesta Rated G: Great For All Ages
A Fun-filled Day Was Packed with Something for Every Member of the Audience
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 6, 2003 — Yesterday, the second day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, had something for everyone. From pre-dawn until well after the sun had set, The Great Motion Picture Show provided one great performance after another.
In the morning, for two solid hours, a flood of balloons inflated in the FIELD OF DREAMS, and Fiesta attendees delighted in seeing many of THE USUAL SUSPECTS including Air Bear, Purple People Eater, The Sun and Airabelle. And, making their maiden voyage with the BABES IN TOYLAND, all the way from BRAZIL, Little Bee Boy and Little Bee Girl were instant crowd pleasers.
Wind conditions were especially good for boxing yesterday. No, we're not talking about ALI or ROCKY, but rather the directed act of moving a balloon in different directions by changing altitude. Today’s pilots were GONE WITH THE WIND and landed back SAFE AT HOME!
In the late morning, we gathered A FEW GOOD MEN (and women) for a Salute to New Mexico Veterans. Cabinet Secretary John Garcia, AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, read a proclamation from Governor Bill Richardson declaring Oct. 5, 2003 Salute to New Mexico Veterans Day.
Even though they won't go AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, the Eighth America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, launched at 5 p.m., is sure to impress. Fans can view updates of this long-distance RAT RACE at www.balloonfiesta.com.
As the sun set, pilots got ready to SHINE at the evening's Balloon Glow. Fiesta attendees loved the CHARIOTS OF FIRE that lit up the desert sky. Fireworks made for a perfect Hollywood ending at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Today we will witness exciting balloon competitions where our pilots get to demonstrate their skills. See you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 6, 2003 — Yesterday, the second day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, had something for everyone. From pre-dawn until well after the sun had set, The Great Motion Picture Show provided one great performance after another.
In the morning, for two solid hours, a flood of balloons inflated in the FIELD OF DREAMS, and Fiesta attendees delighted in seeing many of THE USUAL SUSPECTS including Air Bear, Purple People Eater, The Sun and Airabelle. And, making their maiden voyage with the BABES IN TOYLAND, all the way from BRAZIL, Little Bee Boy and Little Bee Girl were instant crowd pleasers.
Wind conditions were especially good for boxing yesterday. No, we're not talking about ALI or ROCKY, but rather the directed act of moving a balloon in different directions by changing altitude. Today’s pilots were GONE WITH THE WIND and landed back SAFE AT HOME!
In the late morning, we gathered A FEW GOOD MEN (and women) for a Salute to New Mexico Veterans. Cabinet Secretary John Garcia, AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, read a proclamation from Governor Bill Richardson declaring Oct. 5, 2003 Salute to New Mexico Veterans Day.
Even though they won't go AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, the Eighth America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, launched at 5 p.m., is sure to impress. Fans can view updates of this long-distance RAT RACE at www.balloonfiesta.com.
As the sun set, pilots got ready to SHINE at the evening's Balloon Glow. Fiesta attendees loved the CHARIOTS OF FIRE that lit up the desert sky. Fireworks made for a perfect Hollywood ending at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Today we will witness exciting balloon competitions where our pilots get to demonstrate their skills. See you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Sunday, October 05, 2003
America's Challenge Launches in Record Time!
14 Balloons Launch in 40 Minutes as America's Challenge Begins
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 5, 2003 — Fourteen competitors in the America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race are safely aloft and flying. The launch began at precisely 5:00 PM MDT before a record crowd for a gas ballooning event at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. All 14 balloons were launched in just 40 minutes -- which we believe to be a record for this type event. The Team 11 balloon, piloted by Shane Robinson and Ron Martin, briefly made ground contact immediately after liftoff. No one was hurt and the flight continued.
The balloons are headed generally in a southeasterly direction. The weather in Albuquerque has steadily improved throughout the day and looks good for the Balloon Glow scheduled to begin in about half an hour (6:30 PM MDT). The weather patterns developing downrange indicate that this may be a very interesting strategic race, with several options available to the pilots.
Live tracking of the balloons in flight should be available shortly at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. We will post narrative updates on the balloons' status and position several times daily.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, N.M., U.S.A. — Oct. 5, 2003 — Fourteen competitors in the America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race are safely aloft and flying. The launch began at precisely 5:00 PM MDT before a record crowd for a gas ballooning event at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. All 14 balloons were launched in just 40 minutes -- which we believe to be a record for this type event. The Team 11 balloon, piloted by Shane Robinson and Ron Martin, briefly made ground contact immediately after liftoff. No one was hurt and the flight continued.
The balloons are headed generally in a southeasterly direction. The weather in Albuquerque has steadily improved throughout the day and looks good for the Balloon Glow scheduled to begin in about half an hour (6:30 PM MDT). The weather patterns developing downrange indicate that this may be a very interesting strategic race, with several options available to the pilots.
Live tracking of the balloons in flight should be available shortly at http://tracker.balloonfiesta.com/index.php. We will post narrative updates on the balloons' status and position several times daily.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Sunday a Salute to New Mexico Veterans Day
New Mexico Veterans Honored at Balloon Fiesta Special Event Featuring Military Flyover
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 5, 2003 - Earlier this morning, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta honored New Mexico veterans with a special morning-long event. At the event, a proclamation from Governor Bill Richardson declared October 5, 2003 "Salute to New Mexico Veterans Day."
The day started with representatives from over 200 New Mexico veteran organizations including Metal of Honor recipients (Jerry Murphy, Hiroshi Myamura and Drew Dix), Bataan survivors, Navajo code talkers, Korean War and Vietnam veterans, as well as soldiers from Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, arriving on the field at 6:00 a.m. VIPs were escorted by Naval Sea Cadets to meet pilots who then flew the honored guests during the Balloon Fiesta's mass ascension.
At 10:00 a.m., the recognition ceremony, featuring a military flyover, began. The following aircraft participated:
• F-117 Stealth based at Holloman Air Force Base and flown by Major Jose Pinedo
• Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk brought to the Balloon Fiesta by the New Mexico National Guard based in Santa Fe and flown by Lonnie Colson
• Lockheed T-33 owned by Fantasy Fighters of Santa Fe and flown by Larry Salganek
• Cessna O-1 Bird Dog owned and flown by Phil Phillips of Albuquerque
• North American T-6 Texan owned and flown by Tom Martin of Albuquerque
• 1944 Navy GH-3 owned by Brian and Debbie Longwill of Albuquerque and flown by Brian -Fairchild PT-26 Cornell owned and operated by the Lobo Wing of the Commemorative Air Force based in Albuquerque and flown by Wing Commander David McBride
• Army PT-7 Kaydet owned by Steve Jones and flown by John and Pierrette Dougherty
Colors were presented by Vietnam Veterans Color Guard, Fife and Drum Corps played the Star Spangled Banner and Major General Tim Peppe led the Pledge of Allegiance. Mater of Ceremonies Tom Rutherford introduced the morning's speakers, which included Mayor Martin Chavez, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Board President Art Swenka, Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Veterans Services John Garcia, Brigadier General Jim Hunt, Colonel Henry Andrews, Colonel Andy Papp, Colonel Robert Yates, Congresswoman Heather Wilson, Congressman Tom Udall and State Representatives Ben Altamirano, Ted Hobbs Larry Larranaga and Richard Romero.
The event ended with the firing of cannons, a flag folding ceremony by representatives from the Buffalo Soldiers and the Piper Chamberlain playing Amazing Grace.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 5, 2003 - Earlier this morning, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta honored New Mexico veterans with a special morning-long event. At the event, a proclamation from Governor Bill Richardson declared October 5, 2003 "Salute to New Mexico Veterans Day."
The day started with representatives from over 200 New Mexico veteran organizations including Metal of Honor recipients (Jerry Murphy, Hiroshi Myamura and Drew Dix), Bataan survivors, Navajo code talkers, Korean War and Vietnam veterans, as well as soldiers from Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, arriving on the field at 6:00 a.m. VIPs were escorted by Naval Sea Cadets to meet pilots who then flew the honored guests during the Balloon Fiesta's mass ascension.
At 10:00 a.m., the recognition ceremony, featuring a military flyover, began. The following aircraft participated:
• F-117 Stealth based at Holloman Air Force Base and flown by Major Jose Pinedo
• Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk brought to the Balloon Fiesta by the New Mexico National Guard based in Santa Fe and flown by Lonnie Colson
• Lockheed T-33 owned by Fantasy Fighters of Santa Fe and flown by Larry Salganek
• Cessna O-1 Bird Dog owned and flown by Phil Phillips of Albuquerque
• North American T-6 Texan owned and flown by Tom Martin of Albuquerque
• 1944 Navy GH-3 owned by Brian and Debbie Longwill of Albuquerque and flown by Brian -Fairchild PT-26 Cornell owned and operated by the Lobo Wing of the Commemorative Air Force based in Albuquerque and flown by Wing Commander David McBride
• Army PT-7 Kaydet owned by Steve Jones and flown by John and Pierrette Dougherty
Colors were presented by Vietnam Veterans Color Guard, Fife and Drum Corps played the Star Spangled Banner and Major General Tim Peppe led the Pledge of Allegiance. Mater of Ceremonies Tom Rutherford introduced the morning's speakers, which included Mayor Martin Chavez, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Board President Art Swenka, Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Veterans Services John Garcia, Brigadier General Jim Hunt, Colonel Henry Andrews, Colonel Andy Papp, Colonel Robert Yates, Congresswoman Heather Wilson, Congressman Tom Udall and State Representatives Ben Altamirano, Ted Hobbs Larry Larranaga and Richard Romero.
The event ended with the firing of cannons, a flag folding ceremony by representatives from the Buffalo Soldiers and the Piper Chamberlain playing Amazing Grace.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Balloon Fiesta Day One Somewhere Over The Rainbow
"The Great Motion Picture Show" Off to a Great Start
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 5, 2003 - Yesterday, the first day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, was a marvelous success. Pilots, attendees, officials, volunteers and organizers all delighted in this year's theme: The Great Motion Picture Show.
Despite early morning clouds and a 30-minute launch delay, spirits ran high in anticipation of the mass ascension. Before long, a drab black-and-white morning turned Technicolor as more than 700 balloons took to the skies. Children of all ages watched with glee as favorite balloons floated high over head, fueled by wizardly flames.
Adults stayed all afternoon and enjoyed ruby- and glass-colored beverages at Fiesta del Vino, a wine tasting festival that celebrated the award-winning and flavorful wines of New Mexico.
Although wicked weather in the east postponed the Eighth America's Challenge gas balloon race, Balloon Fiesta officials are optimistic that, if we close our eyes and click our heels together three times, the race will go off without a hitch on Sunday.
In addition to the race, Sunday events also include a mass ascension, the Salute to New Mexico Veterans, a balloon glow and AfterGlow fireworks. See you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 5, 2003 - Yesterday, the first day of the 32nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, was a marvelous success. Pilots, attendees, officials, volunteers and organizers all delighted in this year's theme: The Great Motion Picture Show.
Despite early morning clouds and a 30-minute launch delay, spirits ran high in anticipation of the mass ascension. Before long, a drab black-and-white morning turned Technicolor as more than 700 balloons took to the skies. Children of all ages watched with glee as favorite balloons floated high over head, fueled by wizardly flames.
Adults stayed all afternoon and enjoyed ruby- and glass-colored beverages at Fiesta del Vino, a wine tasting festival that celebrated the award-winning and flavorful wines of New Mexico.
Although wicked weather in the east postponed the Eighth America's Challenge gas balloon race, Balloon Fiesta officials are optimistic that, if we close our eyes and click our heels together three times, the race will go off without a hitch on Sunday.
In addition to the race, Sunday events also include a mass ascension, the Salute to New Mexico Veterans, a balloon glow and AfterGlow fireworks. See you on the field!
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Saturday, October 04, 2003
Gas Balloon Race on 24-Hour Hold
America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race Rescheduled to 5 PM Sunday
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 4, 2003 - The America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, originally scheduled to launch Saturday evening, has been placed on a 24-hour hold. Launch is now expected at approximately 5:00 PM MDT on Sunday, October 5. The America's Challenge launch will precede the Balloon Glow already scheduled for Sunday evening.
Officials decided to postpone the launch because of the possibility of convective activity lingering in the Albuquerque area this evening, and because showers and thunderstorms are continuing to the east of the Sandia Mountains and into Texas along the balloons' expected flight path. The 24-hour delay will enable the pilots to take advantage of improving weather conditions.
Pilots will receive updated weather and information at a briefing scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 4, 2003 - The America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, originally scheduled to launch Saturday evening, has been placed on a 24-hour hold. Launch is now expected at approximately 5:00 PM MDT on Sunday, October 5. The America's Challenge launch will precede the Balloon Glow already scheduled for Sunday evening.
Officials decided to postpone the launch because of the possibility of convective activity lingering in the Albuquerque area this evening, and because showers and thunderstorms are continuing to the east of the Sandia Mountains and into Texas along the balloons' expected flight path. The 24-hour delay will enable the pilots to take advantage of improving weather conditions.
Pilots will receive updated weather and information at a briefing scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations (505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Balloon Makes Safe Emergency Landing After Mechanical Malfunction
No Major Injuries or Damage Reported at Rare Hard Landing at Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 4, 2003 - Today the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta announced that no major injuries or damage were sustained when one of the registered balloons had to make an emergency hard landing.
"Balloon malfunctions are rare, but they have been known to happen," explained Paul Smith, executive director of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. "We are pleased to report that both the pilot and his passenger have not sustained any major injuries."
At 8:45 a.m. this morning, during a mass ascension of nearly 700 balloons, one of the pilots, just moments after launching, lost his pilot light and did not relight the flame. His gondola made a hard landing by one of the concession stands.
"Everyone, from the pilot to the medical emergency crew to the chase crew, everyone did exactly what they are supposed to do in case of an emergency just like this," said Art Swenka, president of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Board of Directors. "We are so pleased that no one was harmed."
After an initial assessment by emergency medical staff, the pilot and his passenger were taken to Lovelace Medical Center for observation. The chase crew packed up the balloon, which was not significantly harmed.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 4, 2003 - Today the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta announced that no major injuries or damage were sustained when one of the registered balloons had to make an emergency hard landing.
"Balloon malfunctions are rare, but they have been known to happen," explained Paul Smith, executive director of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. "We are pleased to report that both the pilot and his passenger have not sustained any major injuries."
At 8:45 a.m. this morning, during a mass ascension of nearly 700 balloons, one of the pilots, just moments after launching, lost his pilot light and did not relight the flame. His gondola made a hard landing by one of the concession stands.
"Everyone, from the pilot to the medical emergency crew to the chase crew, everyone did exactly what they are supposed to do in case of an emergency just like this," said Art Swenka, president of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Board of Directors. "We are so pleased that no one was harmed."
After an initial assessment by emergency medical staff, the pilot and his passenger were taken to Lovelace Medical Center for observation. The chase crew packed up the balloon, which was not significantly harmed.
Source: Kathie Leyendecker, Balloon Fiesta Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874
Friday, October 03, 2003
Albuquerque Aloft Ascension Cancelled
Albuquerque, NM - Oct. 3, 2003 - At 7:02 this morning Balloon Fiesta Balloonmeister Gary King cancelled the Albuquerque Aloft ascension due to prevailing weather conditions. It is currently raining in Albuquerque with forecasts for scattered rain showers throughout the day today and tomorrow morning.
King encouraged the 141 Albuquerque Aloft pilots scheduled to launch from designated elementary schools to stay at the schools and teach the students some lessons from "Ballooning 101."
King encouraged the 141 Albuquerque Aloft pilots scheduled to launch from designated elementary schools to stay at the schools and teach the students some lessons from "Ballooning 101."
