originally posted on 5/12/2025
Photo: Jeff Filicko. View full-sized image.
The annual event at Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington) had numerous names throughout the 1990s before landing on Lone Star Coasterthon. For decades, it was a park-sponsored event. This year, it was placed in the hands of ACE as a regional event. On April 26, the park was greeted by 202 members and guests from 20 different states. Thankfully, beautiful weather welcomed them as well.
The schedule had some last-minute adjustments, but a full day of activities and perks was provided, as well as bonus fun the following morning.
Titan was running with its new colors.
Photo: Tim Baldwin. View full-sized image.
ERT started with the park’s tallest coaster.
Photo: Robert and Lisa Gonzales collection. View full-sized image.
After receiving credentials and an event T-shirt at check-in, attendees started with a hot breakfast in the picnic pavilions adjacent to Titan, which was included in ERT. The 2001 Giovanola hypercoaster is undergoing a paint job, and attendees could see the color change in its final phase. Other rides open for the morning were Dino Off Road Adventure and flat rides Sidewinder and Rodeo.
Two lift walks on New Texas Giant were sold out, and those who participated enjoyed what a cool treat such opportunities are. Money raised went to the ACE funds of the purchasers’ choice.
Two groups climbed the lift hill on New Texas Giant. The fundraiser sold out.
Photo: Xander Lee. View full-sized image.
Event organizer Jeff Filicko takes the group shot.
Photo: Tim Baldwin. View full-sized image.
Following ERT, a group photo was taken, and the event organizer, Jeff Filicko, informed everyone that their lanyard credential would serve as a Flash Pass for the weekend — a really helpful perk!!
Following the group shot, attendees enjoyed some early rides on Giant before the park opened.
Photo: Jason Knutson. View full-sized image.
There was free time in the park once the gates opened. Much is “in progress” at Six Flags Over Texas — a new restaurant and record-setting coaster coming in, the front gate being refreshed and two restaurants being remodeled. It’s a lot of “activity,” which made the first looks of things on the horizon interesting.
While the train is out of service owing to the construction of the 2026 attraction, guests can get an up-close look at the engine.
Photo: Mark Luhman. View full-sized image.
During the afternoon, a showing of “The Legacy of Schwarzkopf” documentary took place in the Southern Palace, complete with complimentary snacks.
ACE History and Preservation Director Josh Brown and Senior Director Charles Laureano stand alongside the revealed ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaque.
Photo: Xander Lee. View full-sized image.
Shock Wave.
Photos: Terry Hoffman. View full-sized image.
View full-sized image.
Following the presentation, attendees made their way back to Shock Wave, the park’s legendary Schwarzkopf, for the ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaque designation. ACE History and Preservation Director Josh Brown was on hand (from Ohio!) to assist with the unveiling. Shock Wave is the second ACE Roller Coaster Landmark at the park, following the 2006 designation of Runaway Mine Train.
Those who like haunts or behind-the-scenes tours were able to get a look at one of the eerie houses used at Fright Fest, “The Conjuring.”
Dinner provided more than just a meal — a lot more! In addition to food, there were adult beverages, a photo op with a bobsled from the retired La Vibora, an auction and a Q&A with Charles Laureano, senior director of operations and maintenance. A lot was going on to wind down the evening. All the items up for auction were donated by Six Flags, and the amount raised was — get this — $2,025, which coincidentally matches the year of the event.
The auction of items donated from Six Flags was lively.
Photo: Tim Baldwin. View full-sized image.
The park brought in a ride vehicle from the defunct La Vibora for cool photo ops.
Photo: Tim Baldwin collection. View full-sized image.
Some of the items bid on were quite heavy (ride parts can be that way). Six Flags kindly brought a golf cart to the picnic pavilion to allow winners to whisk them off to their cars without having to lug the objects through the park. Handy!!
Some time remained for a final ride or two, but the night ERT had several choices. Shock Wave, New Texas Giant, Mine Train and Mini Mine Train were the coasters available. Superman Tower of Power offered scenic thrills. But something quite different was exclusive time on the park’s icon, the Oil Derrick. The nighttime views made it possible to see both Dallas and Fort Worth skylines on a beautiful night.
Photo: Krista Keyes. View full-sized image.
There were lots of rides in the night ERT.
Photo: Jason Knutson. View full-sized image.
Attendees enjoyed the private view from atop the park’s oil derrick.
Photo: Linda Freeman. View full-sized image.
The next morning, breakfast items at Johnny Rockets were served with a solid lineup of attractions. Coasters offered were Joker, Batman The Ride, Mr. Freeze and Pandemonium, and The Riddler Revenge, Batwing and Catwoman Whip provided some spinning flat rides.
Pandemonium.
Photo: Donovan Baker. View full-sized image.
Photo: Linda Freeman. View full-sized image.
Batman The Ride.
Photo: Tim Baldwin. View full-sized image.
Unfortunately, Aquaman Power Wave was awaiting a part and was down for the weekend. In its place, the Justice League dark ride was added.
Another fundraiser, a lift climb on Judge Roy Scream, also took place. The three lift hill climbs raised an additional $1,460.
A Judge Roy Scream lift climb was popular with those who purchased the opportunity.
Photo: Krista Keyes. View full-sized image.
Photo: Tim Baldwin. View full-sized image.
Those who could stay had another beautiful day to enjoy the park. A meal voucher was provided for lunch.
Lone Star Coasterthon in 2024 was plagued with rain on the first day. It was nice to see Mother Nature bless the event with perfect spring weather this year. Attendees were grateful to the park for all its courtesies and the efforts of the regional rep team.
— Tim Baldwin, ACE News
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