If you’ve ever dreamed of getting an exclusive look at how a thrilling rollercoaster operates, Paultons Park’s "Super Fans Day" is the event for you. This year, the spotlight was on the park's star attraction, the Storm Chaser rollercoaster, offering a rare behind-the-scenes experience that brought fans closer than ever to the engineering marvel that powers their favorite ride.
Storm Chaser, a vibrant spinning coaster, was brought to life by the renowned German manufacturer, MACK Rides. Known for their high-quality, innovative rollercoasters, MACK Rides designed Storm Chaser to deliver a thrilling, spinning journey that simulates the wild and unpredictable nature of a storm. But while riders usually only experience the thrill of the ride, Super Fans Day peeled back the curtain to reveal the fascinating mechanics that make this coaster so special.
One of the highlights of the day was the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Storm Chaser while it was running. As the coaster soared and spun above, guests could feel the rush of wind and hear the roar of the trains from a perspective few ever get to experience. The most impressive sight was watching the train transfer track in action. Unlike traditional rollercoasters, where the transfer track moves sideways to shift trains on and off the main circuit, Storm Chaser’s track moves vertically – a rare and innovative design choice that adds to the rollercoaster’s uniqueness.
Another exciting part of the day was the chance to step inside the control room, the nerve center of the rollercoaster. Here, fans saw firsthand how the coaster is operated. The control panel, with its myriad of buttons, lights, and screens, was a sight to behold. Operators could see the exact location of each train on the track in real-time, giving a clear overview of the ride’s status at all times. It’s a complex and precise system that adds a whole new level of appreciation for the ride.
Super Fans Day at Paultons Park was more than just a day at the park – it was an immersive experience that offered a deep dive into the world of rollercoaster engineering. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a day filled with insider knowledge, thrilling close-ups, and a newfound respect for the mechanics behind the magic of Storm Chaser.