National Balloon Classic
2024 Champion:
#35 – Nick Donner
Blue Grass Rocket II
Louisville, KY
#35
How do hot air balloons compete?
A hot air balloon “race” is based on flying accuracy and skill rather than speed. Pilots compete in several tasks; points are calculated throughout the week to determine the overall North Central Regional Championship, the State Championship, and the highly coveted National Balloon Classic Champion.
The blue square indicates a balloon’s competition Banner Number. Some banners are duplicates if the balloon is flown by more than one pilot.
2024 North Central Regional Championship
1st Place
Brad Craig
Cheetah
Carlisle, IA
#42
2nd Place
Branden Bloom
Royal Racer
Ackworth, IA
#49
3rd Place
Cory Bloom
Cekmate
Indianola, IA
#31
2024 BFA Iowa State Championship
1st Place
Brad Craig
Cheetah
Carlisle, IA
#42
2nd Place
Cory Bloom
Cekmate
Indianola, IA
#31
3rd Place
Branden Bloom
Royal Racer
Ackworth, IA
#49
