I had heard rumors about a savage beast in the area and headed out to investigate. I arrived at site of the beast's last known location, a sense of trepidation heavy in my soul. I gathered a safari together and we headed out into the wild to brave the beast known only as Prowler.
My nervousness grew as I realized the military was also on hand guarding the local population against the beast.
We saw one of the Prowler's first victims limping into view, the military closing in, trying to provide assistance.
Despite our fear, we pushed onward, a soldier moving in to warn us of our impending doom.
However, it was too late for us; our safari was already leaving the station. I assumed my position in the back of the convoy.
The Prowler slowly drew us in, toying with us, as it lifted us 100 feet into the air.
The Prowler tossed us around and we spiraled down attaining speeds of over 50 miles per hour.
The savagery of the beast was unexpected as we crossed over its trail and fled into the heart of darkness.
I started to black out at this point, and the next two minutes of my life were a blur as the Prowler nimbly chased us, hugging the terrain, banking ever so quickly from the left to the right, swerving effortlessly, leaping up, and pouncing down with a grace and savagery previously unseen in these parts.
Toward the end of our flight, a ray of hope broke through my despair and it seemed we just might escape with our lives intact. One quick banking curve to the right, and we could see the safety of base camp ahead.
Some of us cheered as we returned to safety, others bowed their heads and offered thanks to whatever deity had protected them this day.
Those who survived the excursion were better for it, and joined together around a campfire, eating and drinking with gusto and verve. We had lived to fight another day.
But our celebration was tainted, as we all knew that somewhere, out there in the wild, a beast was still waiting... lurking... ready to strike at a moment's notice.
The Prowler is on the loose!
I had a great time at the Season Passholder preview, and a great time riding Prowler. The coaster is smooth as silk, and fast as lightning. It hugs the terrain and turns on a dime, sweeping through the course effortlessly. While Prowler is not the longest, fastest, or best wooden coaster I have ever ridden (The Voyage at Holiday World still holds that honor), it is an excellent ride and further evidence that Great Coasters International, Inc., is simply the best wooden coaster maker in the world. Kudos to Worlds of Fun for their latest addition to the park!
I was able to ride Prowler three times, back, middle and front. In my opinion the front offered the most intense ride action. The speed going into the bumps and turns seems to slightly more pronounced in the front seat. I counted 15 times where I came out of my seat. In some cases just slightly lifting off the cushion, but in several cases I achieved full air extending through several bumps and turns.
First, to get to Prowler you cross under the railroad bridge on a trail through a wooded area. It feels like you are removed from the rest of the park. They also cleaned up the entire area with new paint, sineage, fencing and pathways. It all feels new and fresh.
Second, they at least attempted to carry out an African theme. While it felt like the designers did not actually travel to Africa for inspiration, they at least took a taxi across town to visit the African section of the zoo. The mural on the photo booth wall, the music, and the landscaping were all nicely done. They still have a little work to do on the north side of the ride que which still looks like a construction site. Hopefully they will finish it.
Third, I liked the way the train wraps around the ride. It should offer some interest both to the Prowler and the train ride. The site selection could not have been better.
In my opinion the African section of WOF has not been this good since they closed Zambezi Zinger.
To everyone else, thanks for the feedback, and for humoring me my lengthy posts over the last few weeks. I have about spent myself, and will be moving back into the background of TPI where I belong.
I look forward to all the other trip reports and ride opening reviews in the coming weeks (especially Manta & RRR!). Keep them coming gang... I expect to be reading about a lot of fun times at parks across the nation!
Thanks for the report. I wasn't able to make the four hour (round trip) journey to WOF this weekend, but I really appreciate the virtual trip you've provided me. And considering I'm using the brief good weather Missouri offers in the spring to do some major lawn projects, probably won't make it until daily operations begin.
Off the subject: thanks for the great Silver Dollar City report too. Makes me long for a trip down there again.
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