The first annual Penn Dutch/Lancaster Host Resort Great Balloon Fest is planned for Friday, July 5, 2002 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the grounds of the Lancaster Host Resort.
This spectacular event will feature 20 hot air balloons including a newly constructed specialty-shaped balloon of the United States Flag. This 50' x 80' wonder will be flown in both morning and afternoon events. The actual balloon events will combine skill and speed to entertain and amaze on-lookers as pilots compete for prizes and bragging rights. Morning events will start at approximately 6 a.m. and afternoon events will start at approximately 6 p.m. The event will culminate to a climactic ending with a patriotic balloon glow, which is a fascinating balloon illumination exhibition accompanied with music.
"There will be a two-part challenge for the Balloon pilots on that day," says Stan Hess, Director of Balloon Events for the Festival and also President of The United States Hot Air Balloon Team. "During the morning and afternoon events, we will feature a "Hound and Hare Race" and a "Fly In Challenge".
The Hound and Hare Race will feature a preselected aeronaut (The Hare Balloon) which will depart from the launch site at the Lancaster Host Resort on a solo flight. The remainder of the participants (The Hound Balloons) will launch no sooner than 20 minutes from the Hare Balloon launch time. During this 30-minute chase, the Hare Balloon tries to outsmart and evade the rest of the Hound Balloons. Upon landing, the Hare Balloon will display a large red target which the pursuing Hound Balloons will drop markers for scoring.
The second event will be the Fly In Challenge where selected aeronauts will determine their own launch site 3 to 5 miles away from the Lancaster Host Resort. Each pilot will interpret and determine weather conditions and wind speed to maneuver their balloon to successfully reach a pre-determined target located at the Lancaster Host Resort. The winner is determined by the aeronaut who drops their marker closest to the target.
"There is really a lot of pilot skill in both events," says Hess. "But the real beauty is in watching all of these awesome balloons together!"
Prizes will be awarded to the top performing pilots.
Individuals can purchase Hot Air Ballon flights for the morning and afternoon ascensions departing from the Lancaster Host Resort by calling 1-800-763-5987. Hot air balloon tether rides will also be available during the day from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Other events for the day will feature a Classic, Rod and Custom Car Show with over 250 enthusiasts dislaying their pride and joy, an authentic Amish Craft Fair with over 50 Plain Folks selling their goods, and a "Battle of the Bands" benefiting the Arthritis Foundation which will stage ten bands of various formats. In addition, there will be a fun park with kids' activities, helicopter rides and food concessions.
"This event appeals to all ages," says Frank Vento, General Manager at the Lancaster Host Resort. "We have so many activities and special events that everyone will enjoy (this) day".
Vento also points out, "People have a natural 'awe' when they see just one hot air balloon. Can you imagine seeing 20 at once!"
Admission is $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for children 12 and under. Special "all inclusive" hotel packages are available at the Lancaster Host Resort by calling 1-800-233-0121. Rain date for the event will be Saturday, July 6, 2002. All outdoor events are subject to weather conditions.
History
Lighter Than Air : An Illustrated History of the Development of Hot-Air Balloons and Airships by David Owen - A detailed illustrated history of the hot-air balloon and the evolution from the Montgolfier brothers's first flight to the first round-the-world success story. Covers every aspect of the balloon - as a military device, as an aid to scientific research, as a luxury airship, and as a means of advertising. Complemented by stunning photography and illustrations that chronicle the major events from 1783 to the future of ligher-than-air travel.