Crowds Line Up For Opening Of La Ronde Skycoaster

Montreal, Quebec -- The crowds lined up for the opening of newest thrill ride at La Ronde this past weekend. On Sunday, the park opened Catapulte, a 53-meter (173-foot) Skycoaster that is the world's best-selling "extreme ride".

La Ronde debuted their newest attraction a 53-meter tall Skycoaster called Catapulte. Enlarge Image

The latest addition to La Ronde stands next to the park's famous Grand Roue Ferris Wheel. The unique location allows the ride to swing between 100 and 130 km/h (62 to 80 mph) high above Lac aux Dauphins (Lake with the Dolphins) and provide a one-of-a-kind experience for thrill seekers.

"We're certain that the Catapulte will delight our most intrepid visitors. And for those who prefer to watch, we guarantee that the 'show' will be just as impressive," said Marc Tremblay, La Ronde president.

Flyers on Catapulte are taken to a height of 53 meters before pulling the rip cord to fly. Enlarge Image

Skycoaster is the world's most popular up-charge attraction at amusement parks worldwide. There are 75 installations worldwide of this unique franchise-style setup that offers the thrills of hang-gliding to amusement park patrons.

"This is our 18th Skycoaster to open at a Six Flags property," said Mike Gutknecht, Skycoaster managing director. "Each location has its own assets, but I think swinging out over the water with the beautiful setting of downtown Montreal in the background is truly a great experience for flyers."

Skycoaster worked closely with Entertainment Management Group (EMG) throughout the installation process at La Ronde. EMG has also overseen the installation of four roller coasters at Six Flags within the past two years.

"Both Six Flags and Skycoaster are great partners to have in the field," said Bill Wright of Entertainment Management Group. "We have a great relationship with them and it was a thrill to put a vertical ride at La Ronde."

According to Wright, a 120-ton and a 80-ton crane were brought to the park to set-up the Skycoaster.

"Once the grade was leveled and the footings along the water's edge were finished the erection process went smoothly," added Wright.

The first flyers took flight on Catapulte on Sunday, June 21st and there was plenty of media on hand to covering the opening. Radio station Energie 94.3 had a guest DJ at the park all-day who was encouraging guests to ride.

See related: www.laronde.com, www.skycoaster.com