Now here’s an interesting idea for charity. Central Amusement International, Luna Park’s parent company, hosted its first “Coasterthon” that awarded $24,000 to the charity of the person who could ride the Cyclone the longest.
Celebrating the Cyclone’s 85th anniversary a bit early, they welcomed nine nonprofit organizations to bring contestants for a chance to raise money and to have fun. Each charity was given one row on the Cyclone, and for every cycle the team completed the sponsors would donate a set amount towards the charity. And, of course, Central Amusement International announced the grand prize of $24,000 for the group that stayed on the longest.
Valerio Ferrari, president of CAI, stated “We are thrilled to commemorate the incredible 85 years of the Cyclone with all of these wonderful charities who give back to the community every day. The park confirmed that the nine participating organizations include: You gotta believe, Alzheimer Association, Special Olympics NYC, New York Cares, Sean Casey Animal Rescue, American Cancer Society, Give Kids the World, Wildlife Conservation, and Youth Service Opportunities Project (YSOP).”
The Cyclone, which opened in 1927, has been mimicked throughout the world with six exact replicas. The Cyclone on Coney Island includes an 85th foot tall hill with a 45 degree incline and speeds of 60mph.
It turned out to be a hearty group riding the roller coaster on Saturday, June 9th, as eight teams rode the same number of laps – 134. The eight will end up splitting the $24,000 prize. The winning charities included Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society Relay For Life, Give Kids The World Village, New York Cares, New York Aquarium, Sean Casey Animal Rescue, You Gotta Believe, and Youth Service Opportunities Project.