Bid for a good cause - and a place in history

Wednesday, 12 April 2006

Firelands Chapter of the American Red Cross Press Release

Red Cross to hold auction for first public ride on Cedar Point's newest thrill ride

SANDUSKY, Ohio, 2006 - The Firelands Chapter of the American Red Cross, in cooperation with Cedar Point amusement park/resort, is holding an auction for thrill-seekers who want a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be among the first rider's on the park's new Skyhawk thrill ride.

The Red Cross is auctioning seats on Skyhawk to the 40 highest bidders, with bids starting at $75. A winning bid will include breakfast at the park, a commemorative medallion, the inaugural ride on Skyhawk and complimentary admission to Cedar Point on Opening Day, Saturday, May 6. (Successful bidders will select seats, with the highest bidders choosing first.)

Located near Snake River Falls in Frontiertown, Skyhawk will be the tallest ride of its kind in the world. Skyhawk will feature two giant swinging arms, each 86 feet in length, with 20 seats on each arm. Each set of 20 seats will consist of two rows of 10 seats, positioned back to back, that will provide each rider with a "front row" view. Using pneumatic technology, riders will be launched forward and backward, swinging higher and faster each time. At the peak of the arc, riders on Skyhawk will swing more than 125 feet in the air and reach speeds exceeding 60 mph in both directions! (Guests must be at least 48 inches tall to ride Skyhawk.)

The Firelands Chapter of the American Red Cross is accepting bids now through 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 3. For more information on how to place a bid, please contact the Red Cross Web site at www.firelandsredcross.org or call 419.626.1641 or 800.589.2286 (toll-free in Ohio). Bids will also be accepted by fax at 419.626.9244 or via e-mail through the Red Cross web site.