2013-2014 BFA Long Jump Challenge: “Fly As Far As You Can"
The BFA Long Jump is an annual competition to promote the sport of hot air ballooning.
Individual pilots plan and conduct their own flights from launch sites of their own choosing. The basic rules are “40 gallons of propane, fly as far as you can.â€Â
If you normally make slow and low flights with a basket full of passengers like most of us do, you may be surprised to learn about the performance potential of your hot air balloon when flown solo. Last year’s highest performance flights flew over 3 hours on less than 30 gallons of propane consumed and covered over 170 miles! Every balloon that competed last year was a completely stock sport balloon- probably just like the one in your garage! Of all the flights you may put into your long book this year, your very own Long Jump flight will be the most memorable.
Decades ago, scores of balloon pilots competed every season in the BFA Long Jump. After a period of significantly declining participation, we’re still attempting to revitalize this unique and exciting annual competition. For more experienced pilots, if it’s been several years since you’ve last competed, please accept my invitation to register, plan and fly your own Long Jump flight this season. For newer pilots – many of you probably do not know about Long Jump – please accept my invitation to conduct your very first Long Jump Flight.
The rules for 2013-2014 are unchanged from last year. The competition window opens November 1st and runs through the end of March. The complete rules are now posted on the BFA website. All interested pilots are invited to register and fly.
2013-2014 Long Jump Rules and Flight Report Form
For more information, please contact Mark Caviezel , BFA Long Jump Manager.
ENTRY: All current BFA pilot members may enter. Prior entry is required. Per each Long Jump season, a one-time entrance fee of $20 is required. Payment can be by credit card over the telephone to the BFA office (515)961-8809, or by check payable to the BFA mailed to the BFA office at P.O. Box 400, 1601 N Jefferson, Indianola, IA 50125. Each pilot is entirely responsible for planning and executing his or her own flight.
For more information, please contact Mark Caviezel , BFA Long Jump Manager.