Day 4, PM Flight

Overcast conditions and ceilings of around 1000' prevailed throughout the day.  It wasn't until during the afternoon briefing that the clouds began to clear.  A double Hare & Hound was called consisting of two tasks with one hare balloon carrying two targets. The plan was for the lead balloon to land, drop a target, fly on, then land again to set the final goal.  Upon seeing the improving conditions, the Event Director gave some consideration to changing the tasks to those of a Judge Declared type.  However in the end the original call stuck, with Deputy Director David Levin flying the Hare (red balloon shown below).  Anticipating shifting winds and heavy traffic, Paul inflated quickly and was the first balloon in pursuit.  He scored well on both, throwing his marker into the middle of a not-yet-unfurled target on the second task.  But as evident in the photos below the pack followed, so performance relative to others will have to wait for the measurements to be published.  A couple miles downwind was a small village that contained the nicest landing site in all of Hungary - short grass and firm ground.  Several of the American balloons landed there.
           
Several photos above courtesy of Larry Coan.

The skies have cleared out tonight and it's pretty cold.  Some moisture has already formed in the air, so hopefully fog isn't a concern in the morning.  With only 3 flights left we're hopeful for many more tasks.

Earlier in the week the owner of the hotel indicated that he'd like to host a special dinner for us.  So after refueling everyone hurried back for an authentic multi-course European feast, the conclusion of which was palatschinke with chocolate sauce.