The 20 year old wooden rollercoaster, Rattler, at Six Flags Fiesta Texas will close on August 5th.
Park officials announced on July 9th that the ride will close although they did not say why. On the park's website, riders are invited to "enjoy this Crackaxle Canyon landmark one last time as [they] bid farewell to this Fiesta Texas icon."
When Rattler opened it was the fastest and tallest wooden coaster in the world. In 1994, the rides top speed was reduced from 73mph to 65mph (117kph/105kph) and its first drop was shortened from 166ft to 124ft (51mtrs/38mtrs) due to $3.54m spent on personal injury settlements. The Rattler featured in the 1992 movie, Blank Check.
It is such a shame to see another wooden coaster closing as they really are the historic value of the Rollercoaster.