Posted by: livelovethinkexist | July 4, 2009
Photos – The Seattle Years – 1977-1979 (Set Six – Walla Walla Hot Air Balloon Stampede)
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Pilots receive briefings by the event organizer prior to the start of the competition.
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That way everyone’s on the “same sheet of music” and understands the rules and guidelines – of who’s doing what, where and when.
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The morning of the competition starts early and everyone needs to understand what’s going to happen and what their part and role is.
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Sometimes balloon launches take place at multiple locations during these big events, because it takes a lot of open flat space to launch a single balloon…let alone dozens.
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It takes a lot of space to host a balloon stampede or rally, as this photo shows crews making preparations for a mass launch.
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The “hare” balloon takes off first and leads the pack of “hounds” who are in hot pursuit across a picture perfect blue sky in Walla Walla, WA.
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Balloon pilots must sort out what the winds are doing at different altitudes so they can catch the “hare” balloon.
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If they can see the “hare” balloon, the other balloons play “follow the leader” as they give chase.
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For the balloon pilots chasing the “hare,” just doing what the “hare” balloon does is not always the answer – because the wind is constantly changing.
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Winds can shift and change direction over very short distances, altitudes and periods of time.
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Competition is friendly and spirited, and everyone tries their best to catch up with the “hare” balloon and win the event.
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Sometimes there can be very stiff competition between the winner and the top balloon pilot finishers.
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At the same time it is very calm, peaceful and beautiful aloft – as everyone chases the “hare” balloon.
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Everything depends on the weather to cooperate and allow for a spirited competition to take place between pilots and crews.
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When the “hare” balloon decides to land, a “target” may be placed nearby to drop individual “markers” on – like small bags of flour; each balloon pilot attempts to get the closest score.
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Eventually all the balloons must find a place to land, and chase crews arrive to pack up the balloons and return to the balloon rally.
