35: Up, Up, and Away: Celebrating 40 Years of Ballooning in Howell

Janelle and Dianne chat with Phil Klinger, longtime hot air balloonist and Competition Director for the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest. Phil shares the thrill that got him into ballooning, what it's like to compete in balloon festivals, and how scoring works in the air. He explains how balloons operate, high altitudes, and long distance flying. Phil also talks about the teamwork and weather planning behind the scenes, and this year’s upcoming 40th anniversary event. This episode lifts the curtain on one of Howell’s most beloved traditions.

 

00:32 Introducing Phil Klinger

01:47 Phil’s Journey into Ballooning

03:36 Understanding Balloon Competitions

06:17 The Role of Weather in Ballooning

09:39 Safety and Regulations in High Altitudes

12:04 The Perception of Risk in Ballooning

18:00 The Logistics Behind the Michigan Challenge

 

40th Annual 2025 Michigan Challenge Balloonfest. June 27-29, 2025. Located at the Howell High School, 1200 W Grand River Rd. Howell, MI 48843. (517) 546-3920

Website: https://michiganchallenge.com/

 

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode:

Bank of Ann Arbor - https://www.bankofannarbor.com

Wayne Media Group - https://waynemedia.com

 

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