Gold Striker is now open

I was fortunate enough to be invited as a media VIP for the Grand Opening/media day event for Gold Striker on Saturday.

I was given a Gold Striker goodie bag filled with a T-shirt, gold bar USB drive and a block of wood with the logo branded on the front. Also was able to nab a Gold Striker towel for being one of the first 9,000 riders!

Thank you CGA for putting on such an incredible grand opening event for Gold Striker. I want to give a huge thanks to CGA's Roger, Ryan, Kristin and the rest of the staff who really went above and beyond to make sure everything went smoothly and amazing!

After a short ceremony, the ribbon was cut, resulting in fireworks shooting up along the lift hill and other places as the first train of the day made its way through the course.

Why the delay, Gold Striker?

It's almost been a month since the promo shoot, and with May nearly over, Gold Striker still hasn't opened to the public. Soundwalls and track infill have been going up all over the ride, delaying the opening.

CGA has been quiet about the ride's opening date, but we should be hearing something very soon.

Photo by CGA Insider.

Gold Striker first ride impressions

I was chosen to take part in a promotional shoot for Gold Striker. I want to thank CGA for putting on this amazing event, it really shows a commitment to the fans. And it was all free!

The ride is not yet open to the public, but should be very soon.

Gold Striker ... wow. I rode it nine times, and I wanted more. Much more.

Star Tower is now open

Star Tower opened up this weekend after a long hiatus. Great views of Gold Striker to be had.

Star Tower now has its own little plaza area, complete with benches.

Gold Striker completes first test run, with video

CGA posted a POV video of Gold Striker's first test run:

Gold Striker's entrance sign is now up

CGA recently posted this picture on their Facebook of Gold Striker's entrance sign:

Via Facebook

Opening day 2013 report

Opening day was certainly busy with plenty of hiccups. But what do you expect from the first day of the season?

We got there around 9:10, hoping to score a free Gold Striker cup. But everyone else had the same idea!

First, the good: Gold Striker looks amazing in person, pictures really don't do it justice.