Roller Coaster Corporation of America

"We just wanted to say THANK YOU for a wonderful trip to Brazil, and that the Montezum roller coaster is FANTASTIC! The first two hills are superb in the last seat, and from the front seat - the weightless effects and laterals throughout the ride are unmatched. Hilltop turns, twisting drops, and helixes are represented well on this ride. We were very spoiled by the park, hospitality, and plush hotel. We can't imagine how this contest prize could have been any more deluxe."

Sincerely,
Brandon & Heidi

Hopi Hari Theme Park
Brazil, South America
March 2000

Grand Prize winner in RCCA's "first ride" sweepstakes is 16-year veteran member of ACE - Brian Driscoll. He and wife, Heidi, were treated to an all-expense paid trip to Brazil, South America to visit Hopi Hari theme park. As RCCA's guests, the couple enjoyed one of the first rides on Montezum, the park's feature wooden roller coaster attraction. Hosted by RCCA on their internet website rcca.com, the contest lasted six months and processed more than 6,000 entries.

Presenting the Sweepstakes Certificate to winner Brandon Driscoll (second from right) was RCCA's Jose Berrios (far right). Hopi Hari's Stephan Banholzer and Hopi Hari's Cynthia Dalvia also took part in the ceremony.

A local TV reporter was on hand to
interview the winners and check out
the amazing new "Woodie" .

Driscoll has traveled internationally before, and boasts over 370 roller coaster rides. "There is no question Montezum is a Top 25 ride - I would even place it just outside my Top 10 - it's that good!

I found the coaster to have great pacing, good curves on the first two hills, a drop under the park's entrance road and a well done helix that ACE members would love, Driscoll told Amusement Today. "Montezum is a great back seat ride on the first two hills, but it's even better throughout the rest of the ride in the front seat."

When questioned about the biggest surprise on the ride, Driscoll said, "It had to be the curving first drop under the park's entrance road. The drop and climb out went far beyond my expectations." He continued, "The entrance into, the duration through and exit out of the hillside helix was a real treat also!"

Brian and Heidi are seen at left returning from their first ride, adding another thrill to their roller coaster adventures. Gary Slade of Amusement Today asked Driscoll if he would ride Montezum again some day? "Yes. It's in a new park that is well organized, well themed, and has great shows. The coaster would make it real easy to go back. It's just a shame that it's too far away for most ACE members to ride."

Congratulations, Brandon & Heidi!

Read more about Montezum
in The Screamer

Visit Rides Montezum to view Scrapbook Pictures