originally posted on 6/11/2023 3:36:00 PM
The anticipation before a roller coaster ride is always electric for enthusiasts. Hersheypark's excitement has increased as well with the highly anticipated opening of Rocky Mountain Construction's (RMC) newest creation Wildcat's Revenge. Laura
Woodburn Krolczyk, assistant general manager at Hersheypark, exclaimed, "This one is absolutely invigorating!" Amanda Polyak, public relations manager at Hersheypark and Zoo America, added, "My heart is bursting right now. I am so excited."
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has always been a haven for roller coaster enthusiasts. The addition of Wildcat's Revenge brings the total number of coasters to an impressive 15. Solidifying its position as the premier destination
for coaster lovers in the Northeast, Amanda Polyak said, "If you like coasters, there literally is no better place to come to in the state or the Northeast than Hersheypark this summer."
The very first Wildcat.
Photo: Courtesy of Hersheypark. View full-sized image.
The story behind Wildcat's Revenge dates back to the early 20th century. Wildcat, the park's founder Milton Hershey's first coaster purchase, opened in 1923. After its closure in 1945, the modern Wildcat emerged in 1996. The Wildcat name returns with a vengeance in this wood and steel hybrid version – Wildcat's Revenge.
The 1996 remake of Wildcat, replaced with Wildcat's Revenge.
Photo: Courtesy of Hersheypark. View full-sized image.
Bringing Wildcat's Revenge to life has been a challenging journey. "We've been dreaming about this ride since 2017," shared Krolczyk. Unexpected challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, extended the project timeline. However, the silver
lining emerged when it was realized that the coaster could open in 2023, precisely 100 years after the debut of the original Wildcat.
So, what can riders expect from this thrilling new coaster experience? Wildcat's Revenge stands tall at 140 feet and reaches speeds of up to 62 mph. Its first drop features a staggering 82-degree descent, and the ride spans over 3,500 feet
in length. With four inversions and an array of airtime elements, Wildcat's Revenge promises an adrenaline rush like no other.
Photo: Doug Perry. View full-sized image.
Creating Wildcat's Revenge within an existing footprint presented unique challenges. Jake Kilcup, RMC’s director of design and engineering, explained, "Working within an existing roller coaster that we had, which is a reprofiling, provides
a little bit of constraint on what we have to work with." Despite these limitations, the team seamlessly integrated the old and new elements, resulting in an incredible experience for riders.
Photo: Doug Perry. View full-sized image.
Wildcat's Revenge has already become a hot topic of conversation among enthusiasts. The ride features a world-record-breaking element: the largest Underflip in the world. ACE member Prime Junior said, "It's a weird feeling, but it is insane."
The ride's intense airtime moments and smooth transitions have captivated visitors, earning it a spot among the top attractions at Hersheypark.
"We love what we do, and hopefully it shows up when everybody rides it," expressed the president of RMC. The passion and dedication of the RMC team shine through in the impeccable design and execution of Wildcat's Revenge. From the heart-pounding
moments to the breathtaking elements, every aspect of the ride is a testament to their commitment to delivering unparalleled thrills.
As the first hybrid roller coaster in Pennsylvania, Wildcat's Revenge is poised to be a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience at Hersheypark.
— Shawn Montano
#ACE360