A while back we got word from the folks at Martin & Vleminckx that the structure is now complete for the Shanghai wooden coaster. Now all that remains is some track work. China is just months away from having its very own operational wooden coaster.

Chad and I were on site back in February when they had about 30 bents left to erect. I had never really given much thought to China being cold in the winter until this trip. Brrrr! Even though it was a blustery day, Chad and I managed to climb all over the structure. Chad climbed to the top of the lift hill in the howling winds (I had the good sense to stay down low – potential isn’t always a good thing).

The completed Fireball, as seen from down the river. Photo taken by Paul Voyer of Martin & Vleminckx. (click to enlarge)

Looking toward the turnaround: twists, turns, and airtime - oh my! Photo taken by Chad Miller of The Gravity Group. (click to enlarge)