RENO — The Great Reno Balloon Race officials announce the appearance of the featured special shaped balloons for the 2011 event, sponsored by the Wilbur May Foundation. This year, Hopper T. Frog and Betty Jean, a brand-new butterfly balloon, will help more than 150,000 spectators, volunteers and pilots celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Balloon Race, which takes place Sept. 9 through 11.

The May Foundation provides funding for the special shaped balloons on behalf of the Children’s Cabinet each year so that at-risk kids can experience team building and the joy of hot-air balloon flight. To date, more than 10,000 tethered rides have been provided.

The butterfly balloon, which will be completed in June, will make her first flight in the United States at this year’s Balloon Race. Betty Jean, who was named for the pilot’s mother, is a bright and colorful butterfly, holding a flower.

The frog balloon is returning to Reno for the first time since 2007. Hopper T. is no ordinary frog. His 58-foot pink smile radiates and his 14-foot wide crown makes him the most important frog around.

Balloon Race officials are pleased to make this opportunity possible with the May Foundation. Stay tuned for more news on special shaped balloons as the event nears. Many surprises are being planned for the 30th Anniversary event.

For more information about the 2011 Balloon Race, to sponsor this community favorite event or to make a donation, visit www.renoballoon.com or call 826-1181.