Is that a giant, green creature I see in the distance? Don’t worry, that’s just Wild Thing, Valleyfair’s iconic hypercoaster. This isn’t just any roller coaster. When Wild Thing roared to life in 1996, it was actually the fifth tallest coaster in the entire world. It was a landmark achievement for its creator, D.H. Morgan Manufacturing, marking their very first hypercoaster. And they clearly knew what they were doing, because its success paved the way for even more scream-inducing rides like Steel Force and Mamba at other parks. Now, look up. That imposing 207-foot peak wasn’t just a design choice. The Federal Aviation Administration actually had a say in how high Wild Thing could climb due to its proximity to Flying Cloud Airport. Imagine soaring through the air, knowing your adrenaline rush is practically FAA-approved. But enough talk. Let’s experience the wild side. Feel the wind whip past as you plummet down that first 196-foot drop at a breathtaking 74 miles per hour. Hold on tight as you race through the figure-eight turnaround, feeling the force of the ride as you dip and dive. And don’t forget to smile for the camera as you zoom through the tunnel. Wild Thing is more than just a ride. It’s a testament to the power and artistry of roller coaster engineering.
Parker Hannifin Hydraulic Pump and Power Systems Division
What if I told you the hydraulic power you use every day, from the machinery in a factory to the