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The Big Bad Wolf Lives Again!
Future exhibit dedicated to the design and development of the innovative ride will be developed (Nov 19, 2009) –Who’s afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?
The National Roller Coaster Museum is hopeful, thanks to a generous donation by the management team of Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, future generations will learn what it was like to “travel at the speed of fright.”
The museum will take possession of an original train, track section, sign package and accompanying support materials for the NRCMA permanent collection. “This is an incredible addition to the Museum collection,” Gary Slade, NRCMA Board Chairman said. “When the ride closed on September 7, 2009, it was the oldest operating suspended coaster – and certainly one of the best. We want to thank the leadership team at Busch Gardens Europe for their gift.”
The Big Bad Wolf was originally added to Busch Gardens’ Oktoberfest section of the park in 1984. The project was originally a Schwarzkopf designed flying coaster but after 75 percent completion, the project was turned over to Arrow Dynamics. The “suspended swinging coaster” operated until Sept. 7, 2009 when contest winners rode The Big Bad Wolf for the last time at 8:42 p.m.
“We’re honored that the NRCMA wants to add The Big Bad Wolf to their collection,” said John Reilly, Busch Gardens’ general manager. “It entertained millions of our guests over the years and now will now serve as a reminder for future generations of what the ride meant to the history of the industry.”
“The Big Bad Wolf is historically significant in the industry because of its place in the lineage of steel rollercoaster design,” Richard Munch, American Coaster Enthusiasts founder and NRCMA historian said.
I hope that the museum can provide a good home for this important piece of BGW's history--I wish them well.
