A View Of Lake Havasu From A First-Time Balloon Passenger

By Elijah Aston

Elijah Aston is a Lake Havasu High School student employed by RiverScene Magazine. Aston recently enjoyed his first ride in a hot air balloon. Following is his personal account of the ride.

I had the opportunity to go up in a hot air balloon with Kathy Reinke on Sunday. The hot air balloon is named “Sunsational” and features bright rainbow colors in a teardrop shape.

As a newbie to hot air balloons, I was apprehensive, but once we started setting up the balloon, I knew I was safe with the crew.

I got to help set up the balloon; spreading the tarp, putting the balloon on it, inflating the balloon and learning the procedures to ensure safety.

Elijah Aston and his dad Dan pose for a photo before his first hot air balloon flight. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Once we started to rise, I got to ask Kathy some questions about flying.

“I’m from the Champaign, Ill., area. I’ve been flying balloons for 42 years. We’ve come to Havasu every year since Balloon Fest started and we love it,” she said.

Soaring over Lake Havasu City was a wonderful experience. I got to see the town from an angle I’ve never seen it from before.

We flew directly above Lake Havasu High School and saw Lee Barnes Stadium from a birdseye view.

The view of Lake Havasu High School from a hot air balloon. Elijah Aston/RiverScene

The smooth landing took place at the Lake Havasu Golf Club course. Afterward, I got to assist in packing up the balloon and saw the intricate process that makes sure everything is tucked away neatly in the envelope.

The flight allowed me to see and appreciate Lake Havasu City through a different viewpoint.

Here are some photos from the flight.