September 10, 2008

The 2008 Great Reno Balloon Race enjoyed a successful weekend. Organizers estimate 175,000 spectators attended the three-day event, with more than 60,000 in attendance at Saturday’s World’s Largest Pajama Party.
“Talented pilots, generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers all contributed to a wonderful weekend” said Marlene Olsen, Balloon Race managing director. “The weather was perfect for flying and we are thankful for another safe year of flight.”
Saturday’s Bed -Head competition received more than 200 registrants, with thousands more PJ- clad spectators participating in the inaugural Pajama Fest.
This year’s Balloon Race pilots competed in two categories: Hare & Hound and On-Field Competitions. Hare & Hound: First-place winner, Dennis Park, of Discovery Bay, Calif. flew for Silver State Spinecare. Second-place winner, David Lynch, of Temecula, Calif. flew for C.I.S., Inc. Third-place winner; Anson Stelmak, of Mead, Wash. flew for Grand Sierra Resort & Casino. On- Field Competition: First-place winner, Greg Taggart, of Citrus Heights, Calif. flew for the University of Nevada, Reno. Second-place winner, David Steidley, of Albuquerque, N.M. flew for Shell Oil. Third-place winner, Dominic Chemello, of Temecula, Calif. flew for the Drummer Family.

Visit www.renoballoon.com for more information about The Great Reno Balloon Race and to become a sponsor of the 2009 event, set for Sept. 11-13.

Video of this year's Dawn Patrol and Mass Ascension

Great Reno Balloon Race's Pajama Fest 2008 pictures
If you were one of the folks who displayed their PJ sartorial flair, click the link below .. you just might be in our photo gallery!

Great Reno Balloon Race Pajamrazzi pics

Thanks to everyone who participated ... see you next year!