25 years ago Black Pontiac sponsored a key grab for the National Balloon Rally and a Pilot from California, Owen Keown plucked the keys off of the pole and drove home in a brand new Trans AM.

To celebrate that anniversary and once again sponsor a portion of the Carolina Balloonfest competition, Black Automotive will provide the $3,000.00 cash prize purse for the 2011 Carolina Balloonfest "Ring-Toss" competition.

Here is how it goes...

All pilots are given a plastic "hoop" ring that is approx. 12" round. Each pilot will leave the airport and attempt to find just the right spot to launch their balloon. They will have to go out at least one mile. If they pick the correct location, the winds will carry them back to the main launch field where a 23' tall pole is located.  The pilots will attempt to drop or throw their ring over the pole without touching the ground.

This is repeated on Sunday morning... there will be other tasks on the field in addition to the ring toss, such as dropping a marker on an X on the field.

Any pilot who RINGS THE POLE for either Saturday or Sunday will share in the $3,000 prize purse. Whether you are the first pilot across the field or the last, the money is still available.

This competition is endorsed by the Balloon Federation of America and points will be awarded to the pilots who want to qualify to attend the 2012 U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championship in Longview, Texas.