Ottumwa's Pro Balloon Races kicked off Wednesday, June 22. KTVO was there as four hot air balloon's took flight Wednesday evening.

Reporter Tasha Turner had the opportunity to ride along with one of the pilots, Brian Bennett.

Bennett has been a pilot for over 40 years. He explained why it's his hobby of choice:

It is a sport not many people do," said Bennett. "It is enjoyable to be up here and see everything. I mean, you could see for miles up here."

Although Bennett is competing in the pro balloon races, he is not the only pilot doing so. 19 pilots are completing in total in 2022.

"[The pilots] come from all over, most of them are Iowa pilots, but we have a few from Missouri and one from Wisconsin," said Bennett. "A lot of pilots will travel some distance to go to races."

Ottumwa's Pro Balloon Races will last until Sunday, June 26 at Greater Ottumwa Park.

The full interview with Brian Bennett can be viewed below.