Balloon teams from far and wide took part in the week long event 

Over 30 Balloon teams traveled from far and wide to participate in the 54th Irish Hot Air Balloon Championships.  Teams from Ireland, N Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, USA, Canada and as far away as Austrailia took part in the week long event in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle. 

The winners of the flying tasks were - Nick & Sarah Bettin (UK) for the Triangulation, Robin Mercer (NI) for Target Accuracy, Ian Wadey and Jordan Rivers-Scott for the Hesitation task. The overall Championship prize went to Mark O'Neill (Canada) and team.   Mark is Irelands first 3rd generation pilot now lives in Canada with his wife and kids working as a professional balloon pilot and in his spare time is training the next generation of pilots!.    

Perpetual trophies are awarded to the individuals and teams that best demonstrate the fun and friendship values of the event. This year the worthy winners of the Frank Barnes Trophy were Team Murray(USA) with the Achill Island Trophy going to Tracy O'Reilly (Ireland).   

Congratulations to all this years winners.