(words, photos, and video by the WebApprentice)
Our friends at Revolution Kites had an idea to shake up our usual Rev Shootout. Most years we have flown and been judged on flying precision figures. This year we had a balloon popping contest.
The idea was to stake out a balloon on the ground and try to pop it. Nails were taped to the ends of the leading edge of a Reflex XX. Short 30 foot lines were used. Each contestant got a short practice period and then they were timed to see how quickly they could pop the balloon. Winds were a bit blustery for us spoiled San Diego flyers.
Pilot skill levels were quite varied. One pilot had their first flight earlier in the day and others were primarily Rev flyers of many years experience. I think it would be safe to say most found it more diffucult that expected. Turns out balloons can be tougher than you might think.
And now for some photos of each contestent
(all photos clickable for larger versions should you desire)
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- Bruce starts his run
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- Bruce is close but short as was most everybody
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- Dave starts his run
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- Yep, short!
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- Iris gets a range setting from Joe
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- Iris is an occassional flyer and gets an assist from Joe
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- Jim is short at first like everyone else
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- Jim takes a different approach – lean it in
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- John starts is into his run
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- Snapped too soon – just about to pop!
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- Loren comes in for the kill
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- Nope – short too!
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- Partrick the newest flyer gets some help from Joe
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- Judging by the leading edge that might have been a hard landing and short to boot
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- Joe shows Rick what to do
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- Surprise – Short!
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- Tom starts his run
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- Tom had a super balloon – hit it several times before it would pop