Mass Ascension...

We took in the Mass Ascension this morning and the Flying Competition. The way some of these balloon pilots are able to maneuver their balloons AND plan ahead to arrive over the target areas is pretty impressive. One scary occurrence this morning - a pilot hit one of the buildings on the grounds... when the gondola tipped to about 35 degrees, the passenger fell out. With the lighter weight, the balloon went up quickly. Initial appearance is that the pilot then let too much air out, and then the balloon made a VERY hard landing, right in the middle of the Fiesta Grounds. Both are hospitalized. In spite of the accident, the professionalism of the pilots and organizers is likewise impressive.

A few photos from this morning...


BIG wind this afternoon, gusting above 30 mph. The weather weasels are predicting more windy conditions this week.