LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Derby Festival’s Great Balloon Race, originally scheduled for 7 a.m. Saturday, has been postponed to 5:30 p.m. due to unfavorable weather conditions. Low ceiling heights and gusty winds prompted event organizers to delay the highly anticipated race for safety reasons.
Balloon enthusiasts are now invited to Bowman Field, located near St. Matthews, for an evening launch. The Kentucky Derby Festival made the announcement on social media, assuring fans that pilots would make another attempt at the race later in the day.
The Great Balloon Race has been a beloved tradition for decades, with the inaugural race taking place in 1973 at Iroquois Park. Over the years, the event has become a signature part of the Derby Festival, drawing spectators from near and far to witness the vibrant display of hot air balloons as they soar into the skies.
As of now, the forecast looks favorable for the evening, and organizers are hopeful that conditions will improve, allowing for a safe and spectacular race. Fans attending the event are encouraged to arrive early to secure prime viewing spots.
For those who may not be able to make the evening race, the Kentucky Derby Festival promises additional exciting events throughout the week, culminating in the highly anticipated Kentucky Derby itself.
The Great Balloon Race has become a staple of the Kentucky Derby Festival since its debut in 1973, and it continues to captivate audiences with its colorful and graceful display of ballooning skill. This year’s delay has only fueled excitement for the eventual launch, and organizers are optimistic about a memorable evening event.
As balloonists prepare for their second attempt at launching, fans remain hopeful that the weather will cooperate, allowing them to witness the thrilling spectacle that has become synonymous with the Derby Festival.
