Experience the Thrill of a Lifetime and Contribute to Making the Eyes to the Sky Event a Continuing Success….. Volunteer to Join a Hot Air Balloon Crew!
The Eyes to the Sky event and the participating balloon pilots invite you to enjoy a unique, fun as well as an up close and personal experience with hot air ballooning as a crew member.
Get close to the gentle giants of the sky and join a balloon crew! Work with pilots from around the country to experience the thrill and excitement ballooning up close and personal.
Many of the pilots who are attending the 2010 Eyes to the Sky Balloon Festival will need help from local crew members to assist in launching, chasing and packing up. The balloons are here to race, compete and help put on a spectacular show for everyone.
Here’s what a Hot Air Balloon Crew does:
- Helps set up, inflate and launch the balloon. Don’t worry the pilot is there to help and instruct along the way.
- Assists in chasing the balloon in a chase vehicle. It’s most helpful for the pilot to have some one be familiar with the area to guide them to landing areas.
- Helps deflate and pack up the balloon. Some lifting is required.
- Answers questions from onlookers. People love to watch hot air balloons, and the Eyes to the Sky Festival draws a great crowd. You may find yourself being asked a question or two, so please be friendly and share your experience with others.
- Works as a team. As a crew member, you will be a part of a team assigned to a specific balloon.
- Enjoys making new friends. Many pilots have long term friendships with crews that they enjoy renewing year after year. Who knows you may even get a ride in a balloon for being a member of the crew.
Who can participate?
Everyone is invited to get involved. There are some activities that will require lifting but as those that participated last year team work is the key and young and old are all welcome. It is a great activity for the whole family.
As each pilot needs about 3 people for their balloon, so joining a balloon crew makes for a great adventure with groups of family or friends.
What to wear?
On the chill and some times cold mornings we have in Salina, layers of clothing work best. Long pants and sturdy shoes will help should the pilot land in a remote location.
Of special importance is a good pair of gloves, preferably leather or with leather palms. Much of the crew work involves working with ropes and handling warm or hot equipment.
Some “don’t wears” include:
- Nylon or any other materials that can generate static electricity or sparks;
- Dangling clothing, jewelry or accessories that can get snagged on the basket or equipment;
- Sandals or flip-flops.
How to Volunteer?
Call Paula Martin to sign up to be a crew member at 893-0458 or email at pmartin.seviercounty@hotmail.com.