This year we will be joining the Bristol Balloon Fiesta to hold our national championship.
Registration is open until 24th April. UK entries must be made through the Comps Club, and there is no need to enter Bristol Balloon Fiesta separately. Please click here for the entry form.
Event details:
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6th-11th August 2024
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Registration and general briefing: Tuesday 6th
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First competition flight: Tuesday 6th (PM flight)
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Last competition flight: Sunday AM
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Prize giving: Sunday, Midday
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Location: Ashton Court, Bristol, UK
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Event director: Jonas Maes
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Entry fee: £100
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Entry fee special offer: £50 for pilots who have not entered a British Nationals within the past 7 years!
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Entry closing date: 24th July 2024
Event History: British National Hot Air Balloon Championships
The British National Hot Air Balloon Championships is the biggest event the BBAC Competitions Club holds each year. It determines the UK National Champion and the British Team that will compete in either the European or World Hot Air Balloon Championships the following year.
The UK Nationals brings together British pilots, crews, officials and observers. Flying happens in the morning and evening, as this is when the wind conditions are best for flying hot air balloons. It is normally the first 3-4 hours after sunrise, and 2-3 hours before sunset.
In a competition, the pilots will have to use the winds to guide their balloon to targets that have been set by the officials. They will then drop a marker (which is a small sandbag with a streamer on) as near to the target as they can. These come in a variety of colours, and we please ask that if you see one, that you leave it where it is. The markers are measured by either the officials or by the observers (these are also members of the official team, but are assigned to a pilot to go with them, and ensure they abide by the rules).
Spectators are welcome, but we ask that you stay clear of the balloon teams during launch, as this can be quite a busy time for them.
If you would be interested in helping out at the event, for example as an observer, an official or a crew member, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
