Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Rachel Hawkins

As Six Flags America prepares to close its gates for the final time, the ACE Ride With Us Podcast takes a heartfelt look back at the park’s incredible legacy. Correspondent Bob Randolph chats with Brichette Reid and B. Derek Shaw to share stories, laughter and nostalgia about the park’s roller coasters, history and the community that grew around it.

You’ll hear:

Personal memories and fan-favorite rides from decades past

Reflections on the park’s evolution and its impact on coaster enthusiasts

How Six Flags America became a beloved gathering place for thrill seekers

Thoughts on celebrating its history during this final week of operation

Whether you grew up visiting the park, or you’re saying goodbye for the first time, this episode is a touching tribute to the thrills, friendships and memories that made Six Flags America unforgettable.

Take a stroll down memory lane and ride with us one last time.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Editor: Ben Weinrach

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Let’s look back at the 2025 ACE Preservation Conference, where members gathered in California for three unforgettable days celebrating the history and preservation of classic parks and roller coasters.

From the thrills of Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia to the marine magic of SeaWorld San Diego and seaside charm of Belmont Park, host Jessica Gardner and podcast producer, ACE Communications Director Derek Perry relive the highlights of the weekend.

Then, the audio from Tim Cole’s presentation on how he helped save Belmont Park and the Giant Dipper is shared. Learn more about the park’s history and his efforts by checking out his book Saving Belmont: An Up and Down Journey.

Don’t forget to check out the recap of the weekend on ACE’s Youtube page

1:32 - Six Flags Magic Mountain

7:33 - SeaWorld San Diego

10:40 - Belmont Park

13:11 - The ACE Centennial Award

15:55 - Tim Cole’s Presentation

17:25 - History of Belmont Park and Giant Dipper

25:22 - How Tim Cole got into roller coasters

27:50 - The Gigantic first ride

29:22 - The closure

34:50 - Getting involved

41:29 - The Save The Coaster Committee

49:00 - Top Gun

54:10 - August 1990 - The first test run

54:31 - Q&A and Tim’s message to ACE

58:19 - Preservation Conference 2026, Volunteer Appreciation

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Episode Editors: Bob Randolph, Ben Weinrach and Derek Perry

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten