Great balloon race is great indeed

The Great Reno Balloon Race lived up to its name Saturday with perfect conditions, bright colors and a cheerful crowd.

Those hearty souls who woke up early were treated to the early morning Glow Show and the Dawn Patrol that took to the sky just minutes before the sun. It was not as cold as in past years, but the heat coming from the balloon's burners did help to warm those who were chilled.

The Mass Ascension of 100 balloons, which is just another way of saying organized chaos, was breathtaking to behold.

The bald eagle balloon proudly flying Old Glory led the way into the early morning sky accompanied by a fly over of vintage planes. This year's event was billed as the world's biggest pajama party complete with a bed-head contest.

There were plenty of vendors selling all sorts of goodies to satisfy the hunger of race enthusiasts who had to forego breakfast because of the early start.

There were many smiles as the crowd headed back to the parking carrying blankets, cameras and sleeping kids who were most likely dreaming about balloons.

• Kurt Kuznicki is a local blogger whose work will appear on occasion in the Nevada Appeal. Visit his Web site at hikingnevada.blogspot.com.