This was my first time to visit the International Balloon Youth Camp - and I have to
say, this week was really cool!
41 youths from seven nations had come to the "7th International Balloon Youth
Camp". On the left you can see all the participants around the basket of the
new youth balloon.
Click on the image to see a larger version.
The 'baptism' of this new youth balloon was also the first highlight of the youth camp.
Theo Schroeder from the german balloon manufacturer 'SCHROEDER fire balloons' had donated
the 1000st balloon of his firm to the balloon youth welfare.
From now on, the 92,000 cu ft balloon with the green dragon will hold the name 'D-OBSJ' and
fly for the 'new blood' in the German Balloon Sport Association.
Up, up and away! After the new balloon had been given its name, we rose into the air. Supported by many pilots from the local balloon club, most of the participants were able to catch an air view of the city of Wiehl and its surroundings.
Our campsite from up above. These four team tents, two kitchen tents and a storage tent were our accomodation for the following seven days.
Altogether six times the balloons took off from the leisure park of Wiehl.
And nights were short in Wiehl... sitting around the campfire 'til four in the morning
no doubt had an effect on some of the participants... ;-)
Our Swabian ("There can only be one") Martin was so tired the next morning
that he fell asleep in the basket during the morning flight! *ggg*
However, not only ballooning was on schedule for that week. The open-air bath,
volleyball, outdoor games, museum visits and a trip to Cologne made a welcome change
(at least for the most of us)... *ggg*
Take care of your knees: volleyball at the leisure park
The model balloons were a very special attraction for the youths - when does a teenager have the chance to fly a balloon himself?
I believe I can fly...
The highboard at the swimming pool gave the opportunity to fly even without a balloon ;-)
Group photo on the Dome of Cologne. We were possibly the fastest visitors this
steeple ever saw!!!
From left to right: Matt, Benni, Flo, Theresa, Basti, Jan, Georg
But the Dome wasn't the only one to put up with us that day. The chocolate museum
at the Rhine also became a victim of our hungry pack later on. Normally, I don't
like museums that much, but this one was great! My mouth still waters when I think
of it ;-) *ggg*
At the end of the week, we could go ballooning again, and of course we had much fun again - who or what might be in that envelope bag? *ggg*
At the end of this little report, I want to say my heartfelt thanks to all the organizers
and sponsors. Without them, this week wouldn't have been possible.
To list all the names would be too much here, but anyone who contributed to this
youth camp may feel adressed. Thank you! :-)