Section 4 - Invitation, Entry and Registration Details
Invitation and Entry Procedure
Equal Number of Competitors / NAC:
-
Maximum Number of Entrants - Excluding Medal Holders:
40
Additional Information for Invitation and Entry Procedure:
First Round:
NACs may nominate 10 competitors.
Second Round:
NACs may nominate up to 5 competitors determined by each NAC
We are requesting a variance from the Sporting Code, Section 1, 5.6.4.3 as there are currently only two FAI recognized NACs on the North American Continent. Mexico is taking steps to be recognized by the FAI.
We are requesting a variance from the Sporting Code, General Section 4.7.1. Currently North America has only two active and recognized NAC’s. The SC states that First Category Events must have a minimum of four NACs or a higher number of NACs as is determined by the relevant ASC shall have entered by the end of the official registration period, as defined by the ASC, with entry fees paid. If there is less than the required minimum of NACs so entered, the relevant ASC shall decide whether the event will take place and shall also decide whether or not the title of Champion will be awarded.
No 3rd Round invitations or standby list is anticipated
NACs may nominate 10 competitors.
Second Round:
NACs may nominate up to 5 competitors determined by each NAC
We are requesting a variance from the Sporting Code, Section 1, 5.6.4.3 as there are currently only two FAI recognized NACs on the North American Continent. Mexico is taking steps to be recognized by the FAI.
We are requesting a variance from the Sporting Code, General Section 4.7.1. Currently North America has only two active and recognized NAC’s. The SC states that First Category Events must have a minimum of four NACs or a higher number of NACs as is determined by the relevant ASC shall have entered by the end of the official registration period, as defined by the ASC, with entry fees paid. If there is less than the required minimum of NACs so entered, the relevant ASC shall decide whether the event will take place and shall also decide whether or not the title of Champion will be awarded.
No 3rd Round invitations or standby list is anticipated
Deadlines and Registration Details
Registration Method and Details:
On line via Watchmefly.net
Entry Fee for Competitors:
$250 USD
All competitors are provided complimentary housing, award medals and propane for all official flights. Pilot plus four crew will be provided complimentary entry for the Opening and Closing Ceremony as well as a mid-week party.
All competitors are provided complimentary housing, award medals and propane for all official flights. Pilot plus four crew will be provided complimentary entry for the Opening and Closing Ceremony as well as a mid-week party.
Entry Fee Method of Payment:
Money order
Cash
Credit card
Other
Other Entry Fee Details:
Entry fees will be paid to West Michigan Balloon Events via credit card, PayPal or Venmo. Eligible refunds will be paid less 4% credit card processing fees. Eligible domestic refunds will be paid by check. Eligible international refunds will be paid by PayPal.
Protest Fee:
$100 USD
Policy on Entry Fee Refunds:
Competitor or NAC entry fee refund due to cancellation without replacement nomination not less than 60 days = $250 USD
Competitor or NAC entry fee refund due to cancellation without replacement nomination less than 60 days = $0
Competitor or NAC entry fee refund due to cancellation without replacement nomination less than 60 days = $0
Dates for Invitation Process
NACs invitation:
7/12/2026
Deadline for NACs to accept invitation:
10/01/2027
1st Round invitations:
1/02/2027
Deadline for 1st round invitations:
28/02/2027
2nd Round invitations:
7/03/2027
Deadline for 2nd round invitations:
31/03/2027
3rd Round invitations:
-
Deadline for 3rd round invitations:
-