For the second consecutive year, Dollywood’s Thunderhead coaster was named the “number one wooden coaster in the world” during the annual Golden Ticket Awards ceremony. Sponsored by Amusement Today Magazine, the Golden Ticket Awards are considered the Academy Award of the amusement industry. Winners are determined by the results of a survey conducted among hundreds of well-traveled park enthusiasts.
“What is great about this award is it reflects the views f our peers and of park enthusiasts who travel and support our industry all over the world,” said Barbara Joines, Dollywood vice president and general manager. “Right away, we knew we had a special ride, but the excitement and enthusiasm of the riders continues as they try to tame Thunderhead over and over.”
Designed and constructed by Great Coasters International, Thunderhead edged out The Voyage at Holiday World; Boulder Dash at Lake Compounce; and Hades at Mount Olympus Theme Park for first place. Voters cited Thunderhead’s smooth ride, unpredictability and “re-rideability” as reasons for its success. In 2004, Thunderhead was the highest debuting wooden coaster in the awards’ history.
Dollywood has also placed in the Friendliest Park, Best Landscaped Park, Best Food, Best Theme Park Water Ride and Best Shows categories. Dollywood’s Splash Country placed in the Best New Waterpark Ride category for Fire Tower Falls.
Information provided by The Mountain Press