Park Review www.parkworld-online.com


California’s PATRIOT!


C


alifornia’s Great America, Santa Clara, California, has introduced Patriot, the fi rst fl oorless coaster in the park’s history. From Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M),


Patriot takes riders to a nine-story height before plummeting them into a 360º loop and a series of hairpin turns. The fl oorless ride includes state-of-the-art blue and white fl oorless trains positioning guests with their feet dangling inches above the track. “Patriot will be an outstanding addition to our family


of roller coasters,” says California’s Great America vice president and general manager Raul Rehnborg. “The initial reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Our guests appreciate that we continue to look for ways to refresh the Park and enhance the overall experience. Patriot is a good example of that.”


OCTOBER 2017


The brand new B&M fl oorless coaster Patriot makes its debut in California


Patriot began its roller coaster life as a stand-up coaster, designed to let riders stand throughout the ride. Stand-up coasters were developed during the coaster wars of the 1990s when ride makers sought to outdo each other with gimmicky innovations. Floorless coasters, which let riders freely swing their feet with nothing below them, offer a more comfortable rider experience. The 1991 Great America


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