When Aquatica at SeaWorld Orlando opened their new “RipTide Race” water slide this spring, IAAPA felt honored to be among the first riders. The intertwined, dueling pipeline slides are some of the world’s tallest at 68 feet. By comparison, the rider height requirement of just 42 inches appeals to families with children.
I saw the opening of “RipTide Race” as a special opportunity to showcase the excitement that only attractions can create … and the magic of making memories with mom. The new slide gives teams of two the opportunity to race each other—perfect for a friendly interoffice feud.
On a warm Friday morning, IAAPA Human Resources Administrator Sharon Ramirez and her son, Marqueise, met IAAPA Director of Communications Susan Storey and her son, Aiden, backstage at Aquatica before the park opened. Treated like rock stars by the team at SeaWorld, both families were given V.I.P. lanyards and escorted to the new water slide as the sun started to rise.
Soon, the boys and their mothers were climbing 116 stairs up to the boarding platform. I armed both boys with wrist-mounted waterproof cameras (approved for use by SeaWorld’s safety team). Each son then took the front seat in their tube—perfect to capture their expressions … and their mothers screaming while riding behind them. Four additional cameras—scattered from top to bottom—recorded the rest of the action as you can see in the video above.
With its bright colors accentuated by the Florida sunshine, warm smiles all the way around, and a delightful splash at the end, “RipTide Race” played perfect host as we showcase how attractions create joy and inspire memories that will live in the hearts of families for a lifetime.
Here's to all the mom's in the global attractions industry. Happy Mother's Day!
IAAPA supports its members and loves sharing their success stories. “RipTide Race” is the 56th water ride that IAAPA members ProSlide and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment have collaborated on at their properties across North America.
