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Dragonwatch takes flight at Toverland I
ntamin's latest Parachute Tower, Dragonwatch, has opened at Toverland in the Netherlands.
Rising to approximately 20 metres, Dragonwatch gives riders a dragon’s- eye view of the Avalon World and a phenomenal panorama of the beautiful park. With a total of six parachutes, one on each cantilever, six fearless passengers can ride on each parachute in a back-to-back seating position, ready to conquer the skies.
Riders can experience the dynamics of the high accelerations up and down as they become the ultimate dragon watcher, plunging into the depths and moving at different speeds, resulting in several attractive ride profiles. Dragonwatch welcomes adventurers of all sizes. Riders taller than 80cm can hop on board and get ready for an unforgettable journey. Dragonwatch is also an engineering marvel as its newly designed innovative belt drive system ensures a smooth and quiet operation, keeping the excitement high and the noise low. Plus, it has been designed with easy maintenance in mind. When the sun sets, Dragonwatch transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. Dazzling lights dance across the colourful tower and its parachutes, creating a breath-taking, unmissable night-time show. The theming and lighting were designed and executed in detail by Toverland.
Chance Rides partners with Permanent Equity
Wichita-based manufacturer of amusement rides, roller coasters, observation wheels and people movers, Chance Rides, has formed a financial partnership with Missouri-based private equity firm, Permanent Equity. Owner and outgoing CEO of Chance Rides, Dick Chance, says: “This company has meant everything to me, it’s been my life and my family for so many years. It was my main goal to continue the legacy of Chance Rides long after I’m gone, and for the company to be successful in the future. “I’ve had the honour of leading the company for close to 40 years and I know Permanent Equity will help the Chance legacy continue far beyond the next 40 years.”
Tim Hanson, chief investment officer at Permanent Equity, adds: “Chance Rides has a fabulous reputation in the amusement industry. Their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality are admirable, resulting in deep bonds built among customers over six decades.
“We’re excited to invest in the continued success of this management team, and to roll up our sleeves alongside them to do more of what they do best – make the world more fun.”
Chance Rides' president and incoming CEO, Aaron Landrum, adds: “The core values of Permanent Equity harmonise remarkably well with our own, and we envision this long-term relationship as mutually advantageous for our stakeholders. Our diverse customer base can expect uninterrupted service and timely deliveries during this transition.
“This is a thrilling period for Chance Rides as we embark on new and innovative projects, expand into new markets, and actively recruit skilled professionals to join our team.”
“One of the key factors in partnering with Permanent Equity is its proven track record of preserving company legacies and enhancing what’s already working,” says John Chance, VP business development at Chance Rides. “They’re not trying to come in and change everything; they care about our company, employees and customers.”
“It’s been a fun ride, and I’m ready for the next chapter, enjoying some of my hobbies and traveling,” says Dick Chance. “My favourite ride was truly a family-led project; it is the Lightening Run GTX Coaster, at Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville. It was the last project my late son, Michael, and John worked on together.”
Permanent Equity will retain the Chance Rides name, in the form of Chance Rides, LLC, and will remain in Wichita. Chance Rides will maintain its skilled workforce and the current management team.
10
JULY 2023
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