Adventures Aloft: Unveiling the Sport of Hot Air Ballooning

Discover Statesville

Get ready to be transported into the captivating world of competitive hot air ballooning with our guest, Drew Egerton. From his early introduction to the sport, Drew takes us through his journey of obtaining his pilot's license and navigating the thrilling world of balloon competitions. With an in-depth look at how pilots use wind directions to steer their balloons and nail the competitive tasks, including the legendary Gordon Bennett Memorial Task, you'll find yourself completely immersed in the sport.
But this episode isn't just about balloons. Drew and his wife, Taylor, have their hearts anchored in the community around them. Having both their own licenses and balloons, they don't just compete- they make a difference. They're deeply involved in various charitable activities, including the upcoming Graze + Glow event at Equuvation: Therapy & Education, a therapy initiative involving horses designed to help children grappling with trauma. It's a testament to how passions can be harnessed not just for thrill, but for change.
Finally, we take a peek at the 48th annual Carolina Balloon Fest, an event that paints the sky with vibrant colors and houses enthusiasts from all corners. Don't worry if you're new to this, Drew shares invaluable tips for those looking to get into ballooning and earn their own pilot's licenses. We wrap up with an insight into Drew's blog about competitive hot air ballooning, where his love for this sport truly shines through. So buckle up for this episode of Discover Statesville, NC and let the winds of adventure take you on an unforgettable journey.

Chapter

1. Competitive Hot Air Ballooning Discovery (00:00:00)

2. Balloon Competitions and Tasks (00:09:06)

3. Balloon Pilots and Their Other Passions (00:14:45)

4. Carolina Balloon Fest and Discover Statesful (00:25:44)