Veteran Pilot Wins 30th Annual Michigan Challenge Veteran Pilot Wins 30th Annual Michigan Challenge

6/30/14- Last night wrapped up the 30th annual Michigan Challenge Balloonfest. About a dozen hot air balloons were able to launch for the final night of the festival but one pilot in particular was flying high. Phil Glebe of Brighton, who piloted WHMI’s hot air balloon and has been a pilot for the last 30 years, won this year’s challenge. Competitive events, such as dropping sandbags from the balloons on pre-determined targets are a part of the contest and points are awarded dependent on proximity to said target. Glebe tells WHMI winning was an accomplishment as the odds were not stacked in his favor because the WHMI balloon is approximately twice the size of many of the others, making it less maneuverable. Among the launches and carnival, this year’s Balloonfest also included 3 entertainment venues, an arts festival and the Michigan Marketplace. Michelle Tokan, the Michigan Challenge Director for the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, says the marketplace consisted entirely of Michigan made products. Tokan tells WHMI a new partnership with the Livingston County Airport made for an entertaining addition to Balloonfest. Varying weather conditions made for an unexpected weekend. Friday night’s launch and Saturday morning’s fly in went off without a hitch, while Saturday night’s launch was cancelled. Despite the unpredictable circumstances, Tokan says community members were still eager to support the yearly event. (DK/JK)