Ride Profile
www.parkworld-online.com
“The ride was finished quite early to give everyone
time to continue with the construction, finish all the theming and pre-running checks,” explains McCormick. “Fortunately we didn’t need it and the first train was launched on January 23.” But how risky was it launching the first coaster of
its kind? “In choosing a prototype, you always need the suppliers to take the risks as well. B&M, although they develop the most amazing rides, are probably one of the most risk averse companies out there; they have a great reputation, so why put it at stake? Nevertheless we always try to work with the best suppliers who can deliver a product to meet our specifications. I have never worked on a coaster, prototype or not, where the commissioning has gone so smoothly. The on-site team from B&M were absolutely brilliant.” Another ride, simulating a “death-defying flight,” is
expected open next season at Thorpe Park near London but other than that Merlin has no exclusivity on the Winged Coaster concept. “It’s B&M’s product,” says McCormack. “I am sure that due to everything they have had to for the design they will
have to do a run of them to make it pay out over time.” The adjacent 1,500-seat Pala Raptor arena, which
has been rethemed to match the new coaster, will host two shows this season as part of Gardaland’s new look live entertainment offering. Sabbia Magica is an absorbing show featuring shapes that come alive on a sand screen, while Smile Together is a comedy show for all ages. In the nearby Gardaland Theatre, guests can witness statues and sculptures come to life as part of a new performance called Museum: The Secret. Six other lives shows are promised throughout the park. The 2011 season continues until November 1, with
five weekends of Magic Halloween specials planned for October. Gardaland will then reopen from December 3 to January 8 for the Magic Winter season. But right now it is Rator that is leaving most guests breathless.
To see a video of Raptor in action read this article in Park World Digital:
www.parkworld.com/digital or visit Gardaland’s Raptor minisite:
www.gardalandraptor.it
28
MAY 2011
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