Great Reno Balloon Race news release:
The 28th year of The Great Reno Balloon Race brought large crowds, new pilots, special shapes, pajamas and lots of fun. Organizers estimate 175,000 spectators attended the three-day event, with Saturday’s attendance one of the largest in event history, thanks in part to great weather and a successful World’s Largest Pajama Party.
“Our skilled pilots, generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers all contributed to a wonderful weekend,” Steve Trounday, Balloon Race board president said. “We are thankful for another safe year of flight and free family fun.”
This year’s Balloon Race pilots competed in two categories: Off-Field and On-Field. Off-Field: First-place winner Robert Romaneschi of Peoria, Ariz., flew for Wells Fargo. Second-place winner David Lynch of Temecula, Calif., flew for C.I.S., Inc. Third-place winner Lewin Williams of Las Vegas flew for Wachovia Securities.
On-Field: First-place winner David Steidley of Albuquerque flew for Sparks Fairfield Marriott. Second-place winner David Lynch of Temecula, Calif., flew for C.I.S., Inc. Third-place winner Joel Metcalf of Bishop, Calif., flew for John Ascuaga’s Nugget.
Don Stockley of Murray, Utah, flew for Sani-Hut and was named Sportsman of the Year for providing crew and assistance to other pilots.
Visit www.renoballoon.com for more information about The Great Reno Balloon Race and to become a sponsor of the 2010 event, set for Sept. 10, 11 and 12.
Thanks to the continued support of sponsors, The Great Reno Balloon Race continues as a free event for its 28th year. This year’s major sponsors include Wells Fargo, Wilbur D. May Foundation, Dixie May Foundation, Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Peppermill Hotel Casino, Farmers Insurance Group, Harrah’s Reno, Curves, City of Reno, Jack in the Box, Great Basin Internet Services, Communications Installation Services Inc. (C.I.S.) of Reno, News Talk 780 KOH, Bonanza Casino, Eldorado Hotel/Casino and Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority. The Great Reno Balloon Race especially thanks Founding Sponsors Circus Circus, IGT, Sands Regency Casino Hotel and the University of Nevada, Reno.
