Carolina BalloonFest Leader Honored on Global Stage

STATESVILLE — Sam Parks, executive director of the Carolina BalloonFest, has received one of the highest honors in the world of ballooning during an international gathering overseas.

Parks was awarded the Montgolfier Diploma while attending the annual Balloon Commission Plenary in Saudi Arabia. The Montgolfier Diploma is widely regarded as the most prestigious recognition in the global ballooning community.

The honor recognizes Parks’ long-standing impact on the sport, including his visionary leadership, direction of major international ballooning events, advancement of safety standards, and continued commitment to innovation, education, and organizational growth. Officials said his work has helped strengthen the ballooning community worldwide while shaping the future of the sport for generations to come.

Organizers say the international recognition reflects not only Parks’ individual achievements, but also the leadership behind Carolina BalloonFest, whose influence now extends well beyond the annual event in North Carolina.

Supporters called the award a proud moment for the festival and a testament to Parks’ role in elevating ballooning on a global stage.