Great Reno Balloon Race media preview day. The balloon I would be flying in, Pixel Perfect , was owned and piloted by Greg Nelson. It is a Cameron Z-77 balloon that Nelson designed himself about six years ago. Watching dozens of balloons rise together reminded me why the Great Reno Balloon Race has become such a beloved tradition in the area. Organizers shared several additions during the media preview, including a new Thursday evening schedule featuring the Super Glow Show, Dawn Patrol and Mass Ascension.