R.I.P. Great Gasp
April 1976 - August 14, 2005
Dear Great Gasp,
Sadly, I just read of your imminent closure in less than a month. Though it saddens me dearly, I know it is in the park'.s best interests. Unfortunately, rides age and parts become hard to come by. Do you remember when you were built 30 seasons ago? That $1.5 million price tag was incredible for that day and age, and equaled that of your wooden bretheren in the back of the park. You were advertised as the next generation of thrill rides, a new concept designed to thrill millions. However, the times have now changed and advancements (such as your neighbors Freefall and Acrophobia) have delegated to ".Family Ride". status. It is a shame to see you go on so many different levels. First and foremost, you are an icon of the park. For the past 30 seasons, visitors to the park have been able to spot you for miles upon miles, and it can be seen all the way downtown. You WERE the park'.s skyline for ages, and still are the tallest ride in the park. However, that will no longer hold true with your departure, and though we have wanted a hyper-coaster for years, it is at a devastating loss. This will mean one less ride for families to enjoy. One less ride to take for relaxation in the park, a park which has already bastardized it'.s locomotive and now will completely get ride of you. You weren'.t the best of rides, but you were a good one. You have spawnded memories that will be cherished for ages. I myself cannot, and will not, ever forget how well you lit up the skyline at night. I won'.t forget the wonderful birds-eye view of the park, nor will I forget those delightful descents. Fortunately, Six Flags plans to keep some of your significant parts as relics of your illustriouus 30-year career. While your riders may die off, I hope your legacy at the park will stay forever. Good bye Great Gasp, you will be missed dearly and will always have a special spot in my heart.
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