Biography

N105HM

Pronunciation  _Glee-ah-tee__


Hometown:  Oregonia, Ohio

How many years have you been a balloon pilot?  16


Mike became hooked on ballooning after his wife purchased him a flight as an anniversary gift in 2004.  In 2007, his passion for ballooning took over, and he opened a professional hot air balloon ride and advertising business which he operated until 2019. Mike flew thousands of people celebrating all kinds of life events, and has flown several commercial advertising balloons.  


Now Mike just flies for fun with family and friends.


Today he is the President of a specialized logistics company in Cincinnati.


He has 2 children, ages 13 and 17, and is married to Mindi, his wife of 22 years. They have 3 Labrador retrievers; Millie, Archie, and Jack who come to Mike’s office every day.  Together, the couple also own a farm near Lebanon, OH.


Competition History
Year Event Country Location Ranking Average
2024Flag City BalloonFest 2024United StatesFindlay, OH16260
2024The Ohio ChallengeUnited StatesMiddletown, Ohio23124