Vortex (Calaway Park) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vortex |
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The green roller coaster is the Vortex.
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| Calaway Park | |
| Location | Calaway Park |
| Coordinates | 51°05′15″N 114°21′34″W / 51.08750°N 114.35944°W |
| Status | Open |
| General statistics | |
| Type | Steel |
| Manufacturer | Arrow Dynamics |
| Model | Corkscrew |
| Lift/launch system | Chain lift hill |
| Drop | 70 ft (21 m) |
| Inversions | 2 |
| Height restriction | 48 in (122 cm) |
| Trains | Single train with 6 cars. Riders are arranged 2 across in 2 rows for a total of 24 riders per train. |
| Vortex at RCDB | |
The Vortex is an exciting roller coaster located at Calaway Park in Alberta, Canada. This steel coaster is famous for its "corkscrew" twists. It takes riders on a thrilling journey with two upside-down loops.
The Vortex first opened in 1982. It has changed its name and look a few times over the years.
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History of the Vortex Coaster
The Vortex has an interesting past with different names and colors. It started out with a different name and a natural look.
Early Days: Turn of the Century
When the coaster first opened in 1982, it was called "Turn of the Century." Its track and supports were painted a brown color. This helped it blend in with the surrounding landscape of the park.
Name Change to Corkscrew
In 1986, the roller coaster got a new name. It was renamed "Corkscrew." This name fit well because the ride features a cool corkscrew element. A corkscrew is a type of loop that twists riders upside down.
Becoming the Vortex
The biggest change happened in 2004 and 2005. The park decided to give the coaster a fresh new look. The track and its supports were painted a bright green. The coaster's train was painted a fun pink color.
At this time, the ride was renamed "Vortex." It even got a new saying: "Fun From The Bottom Of Your Stomach!" This update was ready when Calaway Park opened for the 2005 season. It was part of a celebration for Alberta's 100th birthday.
Recent Colors
In 2019, the Vortex got another new paint job. The track was repainted with a mix of green and purple colors. However, the coaster train kept its original pink color. This makes the Vortex a very colorful ride!
Unique Ride Experience
The Vortex offers a special ride experience that sets it apart. Unlike many roller coasters of its size, the Vortex takes riders for two full laps. This means you get to experience the twists and turns twice! This double ride makes up for the track being a bit shorter. It ensures you get plenty of thrills.
