6/19/14 - About a 100 fans and sponsors gathered at Howell City Park for the annual Balloonfest Media Night, an opportunity for pilots, sponsors and the media to mingle and preview hot-air balloons participating in the 30th Annual Michigan Challenge. The Michigan Cat balloon piloted by Rick Kerber of Wayland, Michigan is what he called a "77 racing balloon." Kerber tells WHMI the balloon has an envelope capacity of 77,000 cubic feet and could hold 77,000 basketballs. Hosted by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, the Challenge will feature more than 40 balloons competing June 28-29. Balloonist Shawn Raya grew up with the sport. Raya said the event is very special to him. He attended the event as a child when his dad flew 30 years ago. Now the Sullair pilot attends the event with his own family. Balloonfest will be held from June 27th to the 29th. For more information on the festival, visit the link below. (LR/JK)
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