The event this year is markedly different from last years event from a competitor point of view in that we do not have Observers at this years event. This year marks the return to the same format used in 2009 of an "logger only" event, without the need for Observers with each team to ensure rule compliance. There are mixed views about this change. Some are happy to not have the extra person around, others are disappointed to not have them. Regardless of your view, it is as it is.
By way of the opening post I have done a bit of a look back at the previous 17 Nationals and find some interesting information:
Different champions: 12
Most Titles: Paul Gibbs, 4 titles
Most successful balloon type: Balloon Works 6, 5 titles
Most successful manufacturer: Kavanagh Balloons, 9 titles
Will this years event be a new winner of one from the past. This Competitor is hoping for a new winner.... me :)
The table of previous Nationals is below:
