Valleyfair Announces New $8.5 Million Impulse Coaster

SHAKOPEE, MN (September 3, 2002) - The wait is finally over! Valleyfair Family Amusement Park is proud to announce the latest addition to its already impressive roster of coasters - Steel Venom, a 185-foot impulse coaster!

Impulse coasters are the newest wave in coaster technology, treating riders to amazing speed combined with incredible heights. Steel Venom uses the revolutionary linear induction motor propulsion system (LIM), which blasts riders out of the loading station as it quickly reaches a top speed of 68 mph. The LIM system punches out a powerful (but smooth) energy boost each of the five times the train travels though the station, creating an unbelievable ride. The coaster shoots forward and backward and up and down the U-shaped track for a total ride length of 2,600 feet. One of the vertical 185-foot tall towers boasts a spiraling 360-degree corkscrew that twists and turns riders as they rocket up and down. And at the top of the track, a LIM brake grabs the train for a split second - dangling riders above the ground before releasing them back down the U. Imagine a 185-foot free fall - with twists!

The train itself consists of 7 vehicles carrying 4 passengers each, 2 persons side by side for a total of 28 people. The suspended seats are fitted with a multiple redundant fail-safe passenger restraint system. The shape of the seats and the restraint system applied is specially developed to comfortably and safely accommodate the special characteristics of the ride.

Steel Venom will cost $8.5 million dollars and will debut on May 10, 2003 when Valleyfair opens for the 2003 season.

Impulse coasters are quickly taking coaster enthusiasts by storm. "Steel Venom is unlike any other coaster we have at Valleyfair," said Valleyfair's Vice-President and General Manager Larry MacKenzie, "it's truly a one-of-a-kind experience that will thrill coaster fans with its combination of speed, height and twists."

Besides the many thrill rides, Valleyfair also offers great family attractions and live entertainment - there's something for everyone at Valleyfair! And there's still time to visit in 2002 - the Park is open weekends in September through September 22 (September 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22). For more information about Valleyfair or to purchase season passes for the 2003 season, please visit www.valleyfair.com or call 800.FUN.RIDE (TDD - call 952.445.1364 - for exclusive use by the hearing impaired).