Rainbow Ryders founder unexpectedly passes away at age 66
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The ballooning community is mourning the sudden loss of one of the most prominent figures in the industry. Scott Appelman, the founder of Rainbow Ryders, unexpectedly died Thursday, according to his company. He was 66 years old.
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Appelman, who graduated from The University of New Mexico, started Rainbow Ryders in 1983, and through his visionary leadership, he quickly became a respected trailblazer in the hot air ballooning industry.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Appelman was known for his witty humor, generosity, and resilience. He loved giving back to the community, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the business world,” Rainbow Ryders wrote in a news release.
“The numbness I think we are all feeling in the ballooning community today, is just impossible to describe,” said President of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Judith Nakamura. “He’s so important to the hot air community, not just for what he does to help young pilots, what he does financially to help the sport, what he’s done financially to help Balloon Fiesta, but also because of the willingness to give the time necessary to help young pilots to grow.”
When Appelman was 12 years old, he and his family moved from California to New Mexico. He received his bachelor’s degree in 1981 at UNM with a degree in finance and economics, and two years later, Rainbow Ryders was born, turning it into the largest balloon ride business in the country.
He also had a big hand in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, helping create the Balloon Glow and the Special Shapes Rodeo. “When they come and see a Balloon Glow at the Fiesta or Special Shapes, they should see Scott Appelman and thank him for the enjoyment they’re experiencing with that,” said Nakamura.
Appelman was not just the driving force behind Rainbow Ryders’ success, but also a mentor, colleague, and a friend to many. “He was passionate about the sport, and you know what, he was really passionate about life,” she said.
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Rainbow Ryders has achieved numerous awards and milestones, making it the premier hot air balloon company in the country. “I am not overstating it when I tell you he is an icon of our sport,” added Nakamura.
Appelman once told KRQE that flying never felt like a job. “I always get chills talking about it because it’s a feeling you can’t describe that really is truly a lifetime experience, having 500 plus balloons flying around you,” said Appelman.
Appelman celebrated his 66th birthday just five days ago. A hot air balloon competition club says Appelman was a world-class pilot and competitor. In a statement from the Albuquerque Aerostat Ascension Association, they say the ballooning community and members who shared the skies with him will remember his legacy.
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