The Audio Long Read The rollercoaster king: the man behind the UK’s fastest thrill-ride
Dec 30, 2024
Discover the remarkable journey of John Burton, who defied his childhood fears to design the UK's fastest roller coaster, Hyperia. Learn about the intricate process of roller coaster design that blends art, technology, and collaboration. Uncover the whimsical challenges of naming rides while navigating trademarks and branding. Experience the emotional roller coaster of constructing Hyperia, from the technical hurdles of assembly to the thrilling moments of its launch. Join the adventure of transforming a vision into an exhilarating reality!
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Burton's Initial Fear
- John Burton initially feared rollercoasters, even being near them.
- He eventually rode Nemesis at Alton Towers at age 12, sparking an obsession.
From Gamer to Creator
- Burton's obsession grew through playing Rollercoaster Tycoon.
- This passion landed him a job at Merlin Entertainments, despite his initial inexperience.
Rollercoasters as Shows
- Burton believes rollercoasters should be thrilling and engaging experiences.
- He views them as choreographed shows, similar to West End musicals, aiming for euphoria.