Galveston's Newest Thrill - Iron Shark

With the Iron Shark now open and chomping at riders on the Galveston Pleasure Pier, Ride Entertainment Group has shared some photos of the ride with us.  Above is a great shot that shows off the nice artwork that's located on the front of the individual, eight passenger cars.  I wouldn't want to get caught up in those teeth!

This view from the top of ride makes me feel a bit off-balance, but it gives you an idea of how the coaster, which is a Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter, is crammed onto the pier and uses as little ground space as possible.  Also take note of how the train on the final brake run is just slightly out over the water, providing an extra thrill.

After the 108 foot tall lift the cars plunge down at 51 miles per hour and into an element that is a combination of an Immelman and Diving Loop - turning riders over twice in the process.  A small air hill follows before a large overbanked turn and a banked loop.

The Iron Shark is also the first Euro-Fighter to have eight passenger trains that only have lap restraints.  This gives riders a great sense of freedom, as you can gather from the photo above.  We're sure that Iron Shark is going to be a hit for both Gerstlauer and Ride Entertainment, and can't wait to see what they come up with next!