Balloonist again on team of around-the-world attempt

Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Local balloonist and business owner John Kugler hopes to join the team of balloonist Steve Fossett in Australia sometime this week for a sixth attempt at a solo around-the-world flight.

Kugler is also actively involved in the High Plains Freedom Flight II, schedule for Oct. 18-20 in McCook.

The 2001 Freedom Flight in November was the first scheduled in the McCook area since the 80s. Last year's event brought 14 balloons from four states and hundreds of observers from around the area to observe the spectacular view.

Organizers are hoping to host at least 20 balloons this year.

Fossett and his wife, Peggy joined the balloonists during the 2001 activities for a reunion with seven members of his ground crew from his August 2001 attempt to circumnavigate the earth.

At that time, Fossett said no plans had been set in motion for a sixth attempt. But, he said, "there has been discussion and the possibility is not out of the question." He told the Gazette his fifth attempt had been very disappointing.

"But then I realized that it's just a part of trying to do something difficult."

"The solution," he said, "is to make it better next time." The question was answered when Fossett announced the launch of the "Bud Light Spirit of Freedom" balloon from Northam, Australia, in mid- to late-June.

Fossett has set several records in his attempts to circumnavigate the world including the world distance record. Fossett also made history as the first person to cross the European and South American continent and the South Atlantic, Indian, and South Pacific Oceans.

In his latest attempt, in August, 2001, Fossett earned the record of the longest solo aircraft flight and set a new solo duration record when he traveled 12,695 statute miles in 12 days, 12 hours and 57 minutes.

Fossett holds eight world records in ballooning, eight in aviation and 23 in sailing.

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