Let me take you back to the summer of 1972, when a hesitant 9-year-old version of myself stood before The Racer at Kings Island. I was intrigued yet apprehensive about taking the plunge on this towering wooden coaster. However, fate—and a persuasive cousin—intervened when he offered me 50 cents (which felt like a fortune back then) to brave the ride. Little did I know that this seemingly innocent bribe would spark a lifelong passion for roller coasters.

As the Red Racer train ascended the first hill, I felt a rush of excitement and trepidation. But as we plummeted down the track, wind whipping past my face, I was instantly hooked. The sheer thrill of The Racer left an indelible impression on me—one that would shape my future visits to Kings Island for years to come.

Fast forward to the early 1980s, and my passion for The Racer had blossomed into a full-blown obsession. It was during this period that I set my sights on breaking records and achieving milestones aboard this beloved coaster. In 1982, I logged an astonishing 2,211 rides in a single season—a feat that earned me admiration and raised eyebrows alike.

But it was the milestone rides that truly defined my relationship with The Racer. In 1984, amidst the thunderous applause of fellow enthusiasts, I celebrated my 5,000th ride—a testament to countless hours spent chasing thrills and reliving the magic of that first ride in 1972.

The journey didn’t end there. By 1990, I was on the cusp of achieving a monumental milestone—my 10,000th ride on The Racer. As I boarded the train for the umpteenth time, I reflected on the countless memories etched into each hill along 3,415 feet of track on the north and south sides of the coaster.

The frequency of my rides on The Racer gradually decreased from 1991 to 2023, amounting to just over 2,000 rides during that period. My career in professional hockey, in public relations and broadcasting, followed by 17 seasons working in marketing at Kings Island, intervened. However, my passion for The Racer and roller coasters never waned.

As the 2024 season begins at Kings Island, I am only 827 rides away from reaching 13,000 rides on The Racer. The question lingers: should I make the commitment to achieve this milestone?

Reflecting on this journey that started with a 50 cents dare back in 1972, I am struck by the twists and turns life has taken—all centered around The Racer. What began as a childhood thrill has evolved into a lifelong pursuit of joy and excitement.

Now, standing on the brink of 13,000 rides, I can’t help but marvel at the memories, friendships, and sheer exhilaration this coaster has brought me. The question of whether to embark on this final push to reach 13,000 rides looms large.

It’s not just about the number; it’s about honoring the journey, embracing the passion, and celebrating the sheer magic of riding The Racer. So, should I? The answer lies in the thrill of the ride, the rush of nostalgia, and the joy of chasing dreams—right here at Kings Island.

Required reading: The Shooting Star Regret: A Tale of Missed Thrills at Coney Island