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“Sustainability will play a crucial role, ensuring that the joy of roller coasters can be enjoyed by future generations without compromising the environment”
clients to ensure their rides are operating smoothly. This includes brainstorming ways to reduce unscheduled maintenance. I also meet with our engineering team at Skyline and the GCI team to develop new coaster ideas and streamline bidding processes. While there are always more tasks that come up, this summarizes most of my weekly activities.
MB: What is it specifically about wooden coasters that makes them so magical? CHJ: Wooden coasters have this amazing nostalgic charm, taking you back to the early days of amusement parks. Their classic look and feel give them a timeless quality that modern steel coasters just can't match. The ride on a wooden coaster is also more intense and unpredictable. The natural flexibility of the wood creates a unique, thrilling ride with that characteristic rumble and vibrations. The craftsmanship that goes into building these coasters is incredible. The
intricate latticework of the wooden supports adds a unique visual appeal, and they blend beautifully with natural surroundings, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the park. Plus, the sounds of the wooden coaster - creaking, rattling, and the roar of the train - add to the sensory experience, making the ride feel alive and dynamic. Many wooden coasters also have rich histories and are often some of
the oldest rides in the park. This heritage adds a layer of magic and allure, connecting riders to the past. They often interact more with their environment, incorporating terrain and natural elements into the ride layout, creating a more immersive experience. And let's not forget, wooden coasters are usually more accessible to a wider
range of riders, including families, making them a beloved attraction for all ages. All these factors come together to create a magical experience that captivates riders and keeps them coming back for more.
MB: witnessed in the industry in that time? cHJ: Pricing strategy is a significant aspect, especially since everyone is mindful
of their budgets. Sometimes, we re-bid a project five to ten times to accommodate new financial considerations. If additional funds become available, we can adjust the pricing and potentially redesign the ride to either add elements or make necessary cuts. Designs have also become more extreme, with parks worldwide competing for
the tallest, fastest, longest, and most thrilling coasters. At GCI, we refer to these as "EST-coasters" because each new coaster we build sets a new record in some "est" category, be it the wildest, the highest, or the most exhilarating.
MB: Are you producing anything now that you could have never imagined CHJ: product. Titan Track can be used for maintenance purposes or to incorporate thrilling new elements into ride designs. Following the success of Titan Track and the Infinity Flyer launch, we are now exploring the addition of launches to our coasters and are actively designing hybrid coasters.
MB: CHJ: advancements and changes, driven by technological innovation, sustainability efforts, and evolving consumer preferences. The future of roller coasters looks incredibly exciting, with technological
innovations enhancing both the thrill and safety of the rides. Sustainability will also play a crucial role, ensuring that the joy of roller coasters can be enjoyed by future generations without compromising the environment. With these advancements, the roller coaster experience will become even more immersive, personalized, and thrilling.
MB: CHJ: We are continually expanding and innovating, constantly developing new ideas to stay ahead in the industry, especially considering the perception that wooden coasters are "behind the times." At GCI, we are also exploring the use of diverse materials for our coasters and trains, aiming to meet our sustainability goals. By integrating eco-friendly materials and advanced technologies, we strive to reduce our environmental footprint while delivering cutting-edge, thrilling experiences.
MB: CHJ: Keep your eyes open because we have a handful of coasters making way in Europe, Middle East, some parts of Asia and possibly America. And of course,
Nanchang
AUGUST 2024
25
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