Competition Committee

Chairperson: Bob Mueller- (eMail)

Liaison: Uli Krahenbuhl -  (eMail)
  • About Competition
         For those balloonists that enjoy this activity, competition involves flying in different types of events throughout the season, which is November 16th through November 15th of the following year.  Points are awarded for each event/task completed.    At the end of the year, those with the greatest number of points are recognized by the club.  Competition flying provides pilots with an opportunity to increase their flying skills through various types of events/tasks.

New Updates to the GEBA Competition Rules
Click here for the New Revision as of Feb. 6, 2005
  • Standings

2007 Scores
2006 Scores
2005 Scores
2004 Scores
2003 Scores
2002 Scores
2001 Scores

  • Long Jump
         This event is newly added to the GEBA program, and provides an opportunity for pilots to test their skill in distance flying.  This event is typically done during the winter flying season.  The objective is to fly as far as safely possible on a limited amount of fuel.  The GEBA program parallels a similar competition hosted by the BFA.   for details.
  • Hare & Hound
    This is one of the most popular events. It consists of a lead balloon (hare) launching 15-20 minutes ahead of the competitors (hounds).  The hare balloon will fly for about 30-40 minutes, then select a landing site and put a very large "X" on the ground near the balloon. The "hounds" follow the "hare" and attempt to drop their (numbered) bean bag in the center of the "X".  The one coming closest to the center is declared the winner.  Very often the winning drop is less than one inch off the exact center, with the pilot flying a few feet above the surface.
  • Controlled Navigation Task
     This involves pre-placing a target at a selected location.  The balloons are then required to launch anywhere beyond a certain radius, usually 3-5 miles.  The objective is to reach the target.  This is difficult, due to the shifting nature of winds.  A slight breeze and/or miscalculation can push a balloon far away from the target.  The target is often a vertical pole, 30-50 feet tall, with an envelope on top that contains a prize.  Thus, precise navigation as well as luck is necessary to win.
  • Requirements
     A GEBA certified competition involves 5 competitors, with at least 2 being GEBA members.  Contact the chairman to arrange for scorers, if needed.