Cutter family honors man behind the Balloon Fiesta
Posted at: 10/07/2012 10:45 PM
By: Adam Camp, KOB Eyewitness News 4
It was an emotional return for one balloon pilot and his family to this year's fiesta.
Sid Cutter, the man who behind the fiesta 41 years ago, died last year. But his family is amazed at the legacy he left and this year his spirit was back in a new way.
The Cutters didn't fly at last year's fiesta, but they're back this year. Sid cutter and his brother Bill flew over Albuquerque in June of 1971 the first time a balloon flew in the city.
The following year, 10 balloons from across the country joined them in what has now become the international balloon fiesta.
Bill Cutter says it's a testament to his brother.
"He did a great job and it's been a great thing for Albuquerque and for New Mexico and great for ballooning," he said.
Bill Cutter's son will is also a balloon pilot.
This is his first time back to the fiesta in 10 years.
"It's really grown into a huge event and not being here for a number of years, it's turned in to a huge festival for the city of Albuquerque and the people from all over the world," Will Cutter said.
When Sid Cutter died last year there was a memorial for him at last year's fiesta, but Will Cutter said he wanted to keep his uncle's memory alive at every mass ascension during this year's fiesta
"I'd forgotten how much fun this fiesta was and all together, so we bought a new balloon," he said.
Bill Cutter says watching the new balloon and seeing what the fiesta has become brings new life and memories about his brother.
There will be a memorial flight for Sid Cutter at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Balloon Fiesta.
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