WindSeeker to debut at Kings Island in 2011

301-foot-tall swing ride to send adventure seekers soaring

KINGS ISLAND, Ohio – If you think riding Drop Tower at Kings Island is a thrill (and it is – riders enjoy a breathtaking view of the region as they ascend toward the sky, then take a 26-story freefall at 64 mph), wait until next year!

Kings Island will continue to change the landscape for thrill seekers in 2011 with WindSeeker, a 301-foot-tall tower that will spin riders 30 stories above the park.  Seated in two-person swings that will allow their feet to dangle, riders will slowly begin rotating in a circular motion as the swings ascend the tower.  At the top, the swings will reach speeds up to 30 mph, flaring out 45 degrees from the tower.  WindSeeker will accommodate 64 riders (32 swings) per ride cycle.

“The addition of WindSeeker reflects our commitment to providing our guests with world-class thrills, fun and fantastic family entertainment,” Kings Island vice-president and general manager Greg Scheid said.  “Soaring 300 feet above Kings Island will provide an exciting ride experience for our guests.”

WindSeeker will be located in the Coney Mall section of the park near the Vortex ride exit. Ride renderings and animation video are available at www.visitkingsisland.com.

The $5 million ride is manufactured by Mondial, a 23-year-old Dutch-based company.  Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride and will be secured with individual over-the-head lap bars with interlocking seat belts.

WindSeeker will make its debut when Kings Island opens for the 2011 season in the spring.