Dozens of balloons fill the skies of northwest Reno, starting Thursday morning. This year marks the 45th annual Great Reno Balloon Race. It will feature a lot of red, white and blue in honor of America 250, and more than 80 balloons will launch.
Organizers say they've put in a lot of work to get everything ready for pilots and their teams.
“We've been working with our FAA and air traffic control partners to make sure we're all set there. And then we've also been making sure the field is ready for pilots,” said Aaron Deiringer, Air Boss of the Race. “We've been setting up the field all day, putting out the markers and making sure they're ready when it's dark when they're coming in, and they're going to be able to get safely to their launch sites.”
Deiringer says a lot of people don't realize it, but hot air balloons are regulated aircrafts, just like planes. All pilots are required to be licensed and registered with the federal aviation administration, which takes a lot to time and training.
To participate in the event, pilots must submit an application and be invited by the Great Reno Balloon Race team. Deiringer says that's to make sure they have the best and safest pilots participating in the race, which takes place over several days.
“We have digital targets in the air and on the ground, as well as physical targets that the balloons will be throwing bean bags at and the cumulative score throughout the weekend,” said Deiringer. “And then on Sunday, we crown our champion.”
Folks looking to attend should make sure to dress in layers, get to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park early, be aware that traffic will be heavy, and most of all enjoy the unique event.
Events are scheduled for Thursday through Sunday. Gates open at 3:30 a.m. every day. A comprehensive schedule can be found here: Schedule of Events – The Great Reno Balloon Race.
Alina Dangerfield gives us a preview of the 45th annual Great Reno Balloon Race.
