Elite pilots prepare for ‘camping out in the sky’ as they compete in prestigious gas balloon race

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Elite gas balloon pilots are gearing up for the prestigious Gordon Bennett competition, a gathering that hasn’t occurred in the United States for 15 years. This event, steeped in over a century of history, takes place during an international balloon fiesta in New Mexico. While some concerns have been raised about the balloons being mistaken for spy devices, the pilots’ primary focus is on charting a safe course through the skies.

During this competition, there are no pit stops for refueling or supplies. Pilots must endure days in the air, carrying everything they need for survival in their small baskets. The prevailing winds are expected to carry them through the Midwest and potentially into Canada.

Remarkable records have been set in previous Gordon Bennett competitions, including a Belgian team traveling over 2,112.9 miles in 2005 and a German team staying aloft for over 92 hours in 1995. This year, a German duo, Willi and Benjamin Eimers, aims to defend their title.

Among the American teams participating are Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo, experienced balloonists who face the challenge of fitting into a small basket due to their height. They meticulously prepare their equipment, including radio, transponder, GPS unit, and provisions for the journey.

Another U.S. entry, Mark Sullivan and Cheri White, bring a wealth of experience to the competition. Sullivan holds records for the most gas balloon flights, while White has participated 14 times, the most by a female pilot. This year’s event is noteworthy as it collaborates with hydrogen company BayoTech to fill the race balloons, addressing the previous scarcity of hydrogen.

Competitive gas ballooning remains an exclusive pursuit, but efforts are underway to train a new generation of pilots. Technological advancements have improved equipment, making it lighter and more efficient. Pilots also meticulously manage their weight, shedding pounds to add ballast for better flight control.

Gas balloons differ from the hot air balloons seen at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta; they use hydrogen, which can expand and contract with temperature changes. Teams dress in layers to combat the extreme temperature fluctuations during the flight.

Despite the inherent risks and uncertainties of gas ballooning, pilots like Sullivan find the experience of flying at high altitudes to be a thrilling adventure. Each flight offers a unique and unforgettable journey through the skies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Balloon Racing

More about Balloon Racing

• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
• Gordon Bennett Gas Balloon Race
• History of Gordon Bennett Gas Balloon Race
• Gas Ballooning – Wikipedia page on gas ballooning for additional information on the sport.
• FAI Ballooning Commission – Information about the FAI Ballooning Commission, which oversees international ballooning competitions.
• Hydrogen as a Balloon Gas – Details about the use of hydrogen in gas balloons.
• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – Wikipedia – Background information on the balloon fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico.