The 45th Great Reno Balloon Race wrapped up Sunday morning, and while the wind gusted at about 15 miles per hour—well above the safe limit for hot‑air balloons—the event still delivered a memorable weekend for Reno families.
Grounded balloons, still soaring spirits
Event officials explained that balloons can safely navigate winds up to eight miles per hour. With winds twice that speed, the aerial portion was cancelled for two of the four scheduled days. Rather than ending the festivities, organizers set up a grounded glow show at Rancho San Rafael, allowing attendees to view the vibrant flames up close and even witness a “dueling balloons” demonstration on the ground.
Family traditions and personal stories
For many, the race is a cherished family tradition. Hailey Valdez, visiting from Oceanside, California, said she came to Reno to see her cousin and experience the early‑morning excitement of a balloon race. “This is one of my favorite events in Reno,” her cousin Sophia Goodwin added, noting the deep‑rooted community tradition.
Long‑time participant Karen Weiss used the occasion to honor her late son, Hunter, who passed away on New Year’s Day 2018. Weiss recalled growing up near the race site, saying, “We used to live literally right up the street, at the top of the hill here, and we would come down every year because he absolutely loved the balloons.” She highlighted Hunter’s legacy as an organ donor, noting that two people have received his corneas.
Weiss, now an advocate for the Nevada Donor Network, took the stage to encourage organ donation. “Nearly 700 Nevadans are on the waitlist for life‑saving organs,” she said. “You don’t know how it will affect another person, another family, a whole community.” Her heartfelt appeal resonated with many attendees.
Community reactions
Ronnin Merritt, a local resident, admitted disappointment over the missing balloons but praised the fire show: “I’m kind of sad about the no balloon part, but I’m enjoying the fire show.” Piper Federmann echoed the sentiment, calling the event “the thing that brings the community together” and noting how it makes Reno feel like home.
Jay Owens added, “It’s nice to see how everything, even with a lot going on in the world, everyone could still come together to have a good time.” Even dance instructor Story Malady chimed in, saying, “I do dance, and if any of my dance class is doing this, then you’re cool.”
Looking ahead
Despite the weather‑related setbacks, the Great Reno Balloon Race proved its resilience as a community‑building event. Organizers plan to return next year with hopes for better wind conditions, ensuring that the tradition continues to unite families across the West.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
