6/28/14 - The Michigan Challenge Balloonfest is celebrating 30 years this weekend in Howell, with pilots from both near and far flying and competing for the title of Michigan Challenge Champion. This popular outdoor festival is hosted by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce at the Howell High School complex. It attracts thousands and is centered on hot air balloons that decorate the sky but itâs more than that and is actually the state championship of hot air ballooning. Pilots compete for the title of Michigan Challenge champion as they fly in to the site after launching their balloons from locations in the countryside. Those who have been around for the Michigan Challenge since day one say the event has prevailed for three decades and it has been a wonderful ride. Competition Director Dick Rudlaff helped start the event and says it all began with a simple idea and theyâre now celebrating the 30th anniversary. He says it offers an opportunity for pilots to compete and gain points for their national ranking, but also show that the balloons do actually fly and donât just float along in the air. Rudlaff and other organizers credit the longevity of the Howell balloon event to the hundreds and hundreds of volunteers during that time, along with committee members, sponsors and the City of Howell. In addition to the hot-air balloon launches and fly-ins, daytime attractions include skydiving and stunt kite shows, carnival rides, along with comedy and juggling acts. A full schedule of weekend events can be found through the link below. (JM)
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