This is a postcard from the Reno Balloon Race. Starting from the right are: Dana Thorton -"Free Spirit", Larry Houska -"Celebration", Jeanne Anson - (This is her old balloon, Twilight Surprise), Ray Shady - "Mountain High", Kenny O'Connor - "Morning's Glow", and Steve Turner - "Poverty" (in French). This picture was taken about a half-hour before dawn (hence the name, Dawn Patrol). These balloons all carry regulation position lights so that they may take off while it is still dark and enjoy the unique sensation of navigating through the blackness, and witnessing sunup from hundreds of feet in the air. It is a unique experience, and one that I highly recommend if you ever get the chance!
Dawn Patrol in 1997, Free Spirit and Cosmic Stairway were "kissing" for about 1/2 of the Dawn Patrol Flight.
It was Awesome!