A launch site for the 2010 UK Gordon Bennett Gas Balloon Race has been confirmed. In September 2010 the balloons will start the race from Bristol, which already hosts Europe's largest annual meeting – Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. The Gordon Bennet event will confirm Bristol's claim as a world capital for ballooning.
In order for a country to host the race, a participant from that country must win the subsequent race. In over 100 years the UK has not won until 2008, when the victory of David Hemplman-Adams and Johnathon Mason confirmed the UK to hosting….this year!!
First held in 1906 in Paris this event is the oldest aeronautical event in the world. The rules are very simple. The balloon landing furthest from the take-off site wins. Traditional gas balloons make flights which last for several days. Each balloon carries a tracker device which relays the balloons position back to base – this information is put on the website so you can follow and watch how the race proceeds over three to four days.
Traditional gas balloons are used in the race, using hydrogen and sand bags. The design of gas ballons has hardly changed in over 225 years but technology has changed and modern facilities will be used for meteorology, communication and navigation systems.
For further information, please see http://www.gordonbennett2010.com
We at High Road Balloons are very excited about the forthcoming event and will be eagerly following the race. This year is history in the making for British ballooning and we can happily suggest this is an event you should put in your diary. Get yourself to Bristol and have a family fun day out.
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