More

    Weather conditions nix Friday Balloon Rally launch

    (Riverton, WY) – “We’d rather be on the ground wishing we were up, than up in the air wishing we were down.”

    Wise words from Pat Newlin, pilot and head of the Riverton Balloon club, who spoke with 105.1 JACK FM’s Charene Herrera and fellow pilot Kent Barnes after the decision was made to cancel the Friday, July 16th, launch at the 41st Annual Riverton Rendezvous Balloon Rally.

    Charene Herrera chats with Ken Barnes about his history piloting hot air balloons. County 10 photo.

    A perfectly timed downpour of rain and high winds were the cause of the cancellation, and as Newlin stated, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to flying hot air balloons.

    Advertisement
    The skies eventually cleared, but not in time to launch on Friday, July 16. County 10 photo.
    One balloon made it off the ground… County 10 photo.
    Ken Barnes’ dog REO hopes his trick results in a treat or a launch. County 10 photo.

    Even though Friday’s launch had to be cancelled, event organizers think the weather should cooperate for the Saturday and Sunday launches.

    There will still be the evening car cruise/street party on Main Street at 6 PM, and the “Candlesticks” on Main St. at 8 PM, where folks can see the burners in the baskets light the night sky. Plus, the Saturday events like the car and bike swap meet from 8 AM to 4 PM and balloon glow at 8 PM are still scheduled as planned.

    The balloons sadly had to stay inside today. County 10 photo.
    County 10 photo.
    Charene and Ken talk shop. County 10 photo.
    Advertisement

    Related Posts

    Have a news tip or an awesome photo to share?