originally posted on 12/16/2022 1:01:00 AM
Photo: David Lipnicky. View full-sized image.
On a cold, misty “December” Saturday in November (November
19), nearly 100 ACE members and guests gathered at SeaWorld San Antonio
for ACE South Central's annual holiday event at the famous Texas animal
and thrill park. Even though the weather was somewhat uncooperative, SeaWorld
was still able to operate all scheduled attractions during the event's morning
ERT session. Attendees all agreed that the light mist in the air seemed to make
Texas Stingray run even better than usual. Others enjoyed a brisk
ride aboard the park's newest attraction, Tidal Surge.
Chilly rides were had on Texas Stingray.
Photo: Alex Rigsby collection. View full-sized image.
Bundled up and ready to roll.
Photo: David Lipnicky. View full-sized image.
Following morning ERT, guests were treated to the first of
not one but two different catered meals for the day. Following lunch, Marketing
Leader Ray Gonzalez personally hosted a special
behind-the-scenes construction tour, showing the progress on SeaWorld San
Antonio's new-for-2023 attraction, Catapult Falls, the world’s first launched
flume, which will be supplied by Intamin. Following the tour, attendees
encountered somewhat light crowds, which allowed them to easily enjoy all of
the park's various rides, animal shows, special holiday entertainment or time
to just hang out with friends.
Marketing Leader Ray Gonzalez.
Photo: Jason Knutson. View full-sized image.
A tour allowed attendees to see the beginning of the construction phase of Catapult Falls.
Photo: Alex Rigsby. View full-sized image.
As evening approached, event attendees enjoyed the amazingly
decorated park and were also treated to reserved seating for SeaWorld's new
Christmas show, "O Wondrous Night." As the park explains,
"’O Wondrous Night’ tells the greatest story never told — the
story of the Nativity as seen through the eyes of the animals who experienced
it." The show combines both puppetry and live
animals, as well as a cast of vocalists who perform over 30 carols.
“O Wondrous Night.”
Photo: Jason Knutson. View full-sized image.
Following the performance, everyone gathered for the day's
second catered meal and plenty of hot chocolate. SeaWorld surprised
attendees with a special door prize drawing for several lucky winners. Winter
weather unfortunately impacted evening ERT, but SeaWorld was still able to
offer an evening ride session on Wave Breaker. A small, courageous
group of enthusiasts braved the cold to stay and enjoy several rides.
Photo: Jason Knutson. View full-sized image.
ACE South Central was appreciative of Marketing Sales Leader
Samantha Sargeant for her work arranging the event, Event Services Manager
Matthew Koenig for hosting the event throughout the day, Gonzalez for the
construction tour of Catapult Falls and the entire catering and operations
staff who ensured a successful event despite challenging weather conditions.
— Jeff Braziel, ACE South Central Assistant Regional Representative
#ACENews