PILOT, BALLOONS, AND MASCOT
The Pilot
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Mark Miller, the owner and pilot for Star Ballooning, fell in love with the sport at age 12 while helping his uncle fly hot air balloons in Bridgewater, Virginia. He got his student license in 2001 but it wasn't until 2013 that Mark finished his training to become a commercial hot air balloon pilot. Mark and his wife currently live in DC, but they regularly make the trek back to Mark's hometown in Virginia to fly.
Shenandoah
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Shenandoah is our largest balloon, able to carry up to six passengers. The name, Shenandoah, is derived from an Algonquian word meaning "beautiful daughter of the stars." We love where we fly in the Shenandoah Valley and the connection this name has on multiple levels!!
Theia
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Theia is the goddess of clear blue skies - very fitting for this sport that we love! Originally from Connecticut, this balloon is one size bigger than Sirius, allowing us to fly more easily in the hot summer months.
Geoffrey the Balloon Dog
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Geoffrey is a 7yr old Welsh Terrier that loves to come along on our ballooning adventures. He's a little bit of a chicken when it comes to loud noises so he hasn't flown in the balloon yet, but he still enjoys riding along in the chase vehicle and watching his dad fly. His favourite part is at the end of the flight when he can show off his tricks for some treats while the humans drink their champagne.
