Long Islanders Bid Farewell To Hurricane Roller Coaster At Adventureland
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (CBS New York) -- It's an end to an era on Long Island as generations of roller coaster enthusiasts bid farewell to a beloved amusement ride.
As TV 10/55's Richard Rose reported, folks lined up at Adventureland on Route 110 to ride the Hurricane one last time.
To the dismay of those who grew up with it, the roller coaster, a fixture at the amusement park for nearly a quarter century, is being replaced.
"I remember we would dare our friends about who was going to go in the front, and who would go in last," said Michelle Walker. "(What did you think when you heard they were taking it down?) I was upset. I was like we gotta come down with our camera, get on it a few times and take some pictures."
Whether young or old, the Hurricane has always been a big draw, in part because it only goes about 50 feet high.
"It's not too extreme, not too mild. It's perfect for even the smallest kid and adults who enjoy it together," said Zachary McCall.
Despite its modest height, the Hurricane is still plenty thrilling enough for its fans.
"I think it was really good! (Were you scared? A little bit," said 6-year-old Robert Walker.
On Tuesday, the Hurricane will be dismantled and shipped to an amusement park in Florida. In its place, Adventureland will bring in a similar size roller coaster with one very, intimidating difference that may appeal to the biggest thrill seekers, Rose reported.
"Each car will be spinning independently as it goes around its revolution of the ride," explained Adventureland's General Manager Steven Gentile.
The new roller coaster will arrive early next month and should be fully assembled by next spring. Just in time to bring the next generation its share of high-flying, fun-filled fright, Rose reported.
Adventureland is holding a naming contest for the new roller coaster. Whoever picks the winning name will get a free three-year pass to ride the new coaster.
Check Out These Other Stories From CBSNewYork.com:
