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Simon Parry

A group of thrill-seekers have just completed a whirlwind tour of 100 roller coasters spread throughout China in just 17 days.
Around 60 members of the European Coaster Club worked their way from Ocean Park and Disneyland in Hong Kong to Shanghai via theme parks in Shenzhen, Wuhan, Zhuhai, Guangzhou and Changzhou.
After arriving home, members of the Britain-based club - whose tour party included people from England, Sweden, Germany, Holland, Denmark and France - said they thought Hong Kong and the mainland would soon become a global must-visit destination for theme park fans.
Marcus Gaines, the club's marketing manager and one of the trip's organisers, described it as "a resounding success".
He said: "The idea for a trip to China came about because the amusement industry is going through a massive growth in the country.
"China now has more roller coasters than any other country, so the club simply had to visit."
The highlight for many members was the chance to ride on two wooden roller coasters - Dauling Dragons at the Happy Valley theme park in Wuhan and Fireball at the Happy Valley theme park in Shanghai.
The group was given half-an- hour of private use of the Dauling Dragons ride, where they were able to "high five" each other as twin roller coasters tipped towards each other.
Gaines added: "Dauling Dragons is now my favourite roller coaster in the world. I couldn't get over how exciting and unique the ride was. The 'high five' element was an incredible moment."
In many parks, the enthusiasts were given VIP access and received a red carpet welcome from staff and fellow guests alike.
Gaines said: "Many of the group said they felt like rock stars as they were constantly being asked to pose for photos. We found everyone we met so friendly and interested in what we were doing in China."
Tour party member Steve Gzesh said: "My highlights included visiting Hong Kong Disneyland, where I reached the milestone of riding my 1,000th different roller coaster on Space Mountain."
Club founder Justin Garvanovic said there no injuries or accidents on any of the rides. "There were a few bruises, but nothing serious," he said. "These injuries end up being more like trophies than anything bad."


European thrill-seekers ride on 100 roller coasters in 17 days across China

Thrill-seekers try out the Hair Raiser roller coaster in Ocean Park. Photo: K. Y. Cheng

News

Hong Kong

Thrill-seekers from Europe complete a hectic white-knuckle ride across China


Around 60 members of the European Coaster Club worked their way from Ocean Park and Disneyland in Hong Kong to Shanghai via theme parks in Shenzhen, Wuhan, Zhuhai, Guangzhou and Changzhou.
