TAMPA, Fla. \u2014 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be retiring its oldest roller coaster, \u201cKumba,\u201d after 33 years of operation, officials announced Tuesday.<\/p>\n
While officials are preparing to say farewell to the ride, new plans are already taking form with the announcement of its eventual successor: \u201cKumba\u2019s Revenge.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOur more than $100 million investment represents our commitment to the future of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and to creating extraordinary experiences that keep guests coming back,\u201d said Jon Vigue, president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, in a statement. \u201cKumba has inspired generations of thrill-seekers and earned its place as one of the world\u2019s most iconic roller coasters. As we celebrate its incredible legacy, we\u2019re also looking ahead. Kumba\u2019s Revenge will honor everything guests loved about the original while delivering an entirely new level of thrills.\u201d<\/p>\n
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When it made its debut in 1993, Kumba was Florida\u2019s tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster, featuring the world\u2019s tallest vertical loop. During its nearly three-minute ride, guests plunged 135 feet, reached speeds of 60 miles per hour, and raced through seven inversions.<\/p>\n
Busch Gardens Annual Pass members will have the opportunity for exclusive ride time on Aug. 1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., officials said. Regular guests have until Sunday, Aug. 2, to experience the coaster one last time.<\/p>\n
There were no details released about Kumba\u2019s Revenge at this time.<\/p>\n