May 9, 2008
New roller coaster for Busch Gardens
Heres some big news for thrill seekers.
Busch Gardens recently announced that it will unveil a new roller coaster next spring, Griffon.
Griffon will be the tallest dive coaster in the world, topping 200 feet in height.
It is the first floorless dive coaster, and the first to incorporate two Immelmann loops an inverse diving loop named for a WWI German fighter pilot.
The ride also has a 130-foot dive and a water feature with spectacular viewing platforms where ride watchers can share in the thrills.
Each floorless coaster car will consist of three, 10-person wide rows. Griffon offers over-the-edge excitement on more than half a mile of steel track and will become the centerpiece of Busch Gardens Europes French section.
The coaster is being constructed where the former Le Mans car track was located.
Here are some more facts about the coaster.
Steepest drop, 90-degrees
Tallest dive coaster, drop of 205 feet
First dive coaster to include two Immelmann loops
Floorless trains
130-foot second dive
360-degree climbing carousel
Water-feature
More than half-mile of track
71 mph fastest speed
Three minutes ride duration
Three rows of 10 seats, 30 passengers per train
Approximately 1,400 guests per hour can ride
Copyright © 2008, The Virginia Gazette
Our Town
What are your favorite areas of town? Got some great pics you want to share?
Popular stories
Download this month's issue
