Swedish amusement park Liseberg is seeking “super seniors” to take part in a world record attempt on its Valkyria dive coaster.
Thrill-seekers over the age of 70 are invited to join Liseberg in setting the world record, which is currently held by Blackpool Pleasure Beach in the UK, where a coaster train in 2003 had an average age of 75.25 years.
“We are curious to see if we can fill a Valkyria train, with 18 seats, with adventure-seeking seniors for an exhilarating ride on September 3,” said Mårten Westlund, PR and communications manager at Liseberg.
“In conjunction with this, we will also attempt to set a world record for the highest average age in a roller coaster ride. That’s our goal, but the most important thing is to have fun together and show that the amusement park is for all ages.”
Valkyria is Europe’s longest dive coaster. It boasts a height of 47 metres and a maximum speed of 105 km/h, as well as a 50-metre drop.
“We see that it’s mainly young people and young adults who are drawn to our more extreme attractions, and perhaps older people casually think that exciting rides aren’t for them,” Westlund added.
“We want to change that. Feelings of joy and excitement never grow old, and research shows the positive health effects of having fun together and challenging oneself. We believe Liseberg can play an important role in that.”
Liseberg is “for all ages”
Earlier this year, the UK’s Alton Towers appointed a 72-year-old grandmother of four as its first chief thrillseeker. In her new role, Jackie Smith is responsible for attending the theme park’s biannual Thrillseeker Summit and testing new rides.
“Alton Towers sets the bar worldwide for thrill-seekers and I can’t wait to bring my expertise from a lifetime of adventure to help ensure they continue to set new standards,” said Smith.
Liseberg’s world record attempt will take place on 3 September.
