An 80-foot tall hot air balloon sailed over Pullman carrying three people for National Apple Day at around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.
The Cosmic Crisp apple hot air balloon could be seen at Mooberry Track at WSU. The balloon flew over Pullman dangling the ‘Ol Crimson Flag for around an hour before landing in a wheat field. The three people in the balloon were pilot Steve Wilkinson, WSU alum Kaitlyn Thornton, a fourth-generation apple and pear grower and agriculture influencer, and Lisa Minardi, a representative from Harbor Creative Group.
The balloon intended to take off Monday, the actual date of National Apple Day, but had to be delayed due to weather. Before takeoff, viewers were able to enjoy Cosmic Crisp apples and other snacks, as well as take pictures with Butch T. Cougar, who made an appearance. The event also included two smaller balloons that were seen around campus. One balloon was floating above Glenn Terrell Mall and the other sat in front of the Cougar Pride Statue near Martin Stadium.
The balloon is used to advertise the Cosmic Crisp apple, which was developed at WSU’s Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center. It has traveled all over the country and internationally.
“We’ve taken it to Thailand, we’ve taken it to Italy, we’ve been in Mexico, we’ve been in Canada and all over,” Wilkinson said.The balloon not only represents Cosmic Crisp but Cougs everywhere.
Butch watching as the balloon prepares for launch.
“The research for the apple happened, started happening 20 years ago … it shows the perseverance of Cougs,” Thornton said.
Moses Henning, a student who attended the event, said he was there before classes and wanted to attend because he loves the Cosmic Crisp and how it is local to WSU.
Cynthia Wilkinson, the crew chief for the balloon, said after the visit in Pullman, the balloon will be brought to an event in Walla Walla at the Bledsoe Family Winery. The winery was founded by WSU alum and Super Bowl champion Drew Bledsoe.
