© 2025 KUNR
Illustration of rolling hills with occasional trees and a radio tower.
Serving Northern Nevada and the Eastern Sierra
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s clear unbiased local information is essential, and KUNR Public Radio is committed to bringing you — our Northern Nevada and Eastern Sierra community — the news and stories you count on.

While our dedication to the quality and depth you’ve come to know and love has not wavered, we need the help of community members like you to sustain this vital public service.

This holiday season, make a year-end donation to help secure KUNR’s public service mission and independence in 2026.
Your gift fuels our mission: Help secure KUNR’s future by making a year-end donation today. 🎁

PHOTOS: Experience The Great Balloon Race 2017

Paul Boger

The Great Reno Balloon Race is one of the largest hot air balloon events in the world, with about 100 flying each year. Reporter Paul Boger experienced the 35-year tradition first hand and took these photos of the event.

Credit Paul Boger
Launch Commander Andy Deringer gives pilots an early morning briefing before a mass ascension of nearly 80 balloons
Credit Paul Boger
Jacob Molnar of Sacramento and his Wizard of Oz themed balloon "Emerald City" perform in the early morning Super Glow Show.
Credit Paul Boger
Crowds watch as balloons perform in the Super Glow Show.

Credit Paul Boger
Don Heisig of Holt, California connects his balloon "Mariposa II" to the basket ahead of the mass ascension.
Credit Paul Boger
Balloons start taking off as the sun comes over the horizon.
Credit Paul Boger
Inside the "Mariposa II." The prep team fills the balloon with cold air in order to create room for the hot air.
Credit Paul Boger
The prep team standing the "Mariposa II" upright.
Credit Lynsey Hatfield
Balloon pilots "Splashing and Dashing" at Herman Pond at Rancho San Rafael.

Paul Boger is a former reporter at KUNR Public Radio.
Related Content