As a child, Cincinnati’s Coney Island was the highlight of every summer for my family. The amusement park along the banks of the Ohio River held a special place in my heart, with vivid memories of rides like the Lost River, Tumble Bug, and the Shooting Star.

The whimsical charm of the Carousel, with its intricately carved horses, added a touch of enchantment to each visit, while the Log Flume provided refreshing splashes and an adventurous journey through water-filled channels. The excitement of the Scrambler, with its spinning cars creating a whirlwind of laughter, remains etched in my memories. Additionally, the Skyride offered panoramic views of the park and the majestic Ohio River, enhancing the sense of wonder that characterized every trip to Coney Island. Each ride became a cherished chapter in the story of my carefree summers spent amidst the thrills and laughter of this extraordinary amusement park.

The Shooting Star, considered to be one of America’s finest roller coasters, stood tall as the first coaster I ever laid eyes on. Intrigued by its presence, I recall my dad taking me to the nearby River Downs horse racing track where I would catch a glimpse of the Shooting Star in action through binoculars.

The Shooting Star, originally opened in 1937 as the Clipper, underwent a redesign in 1947 and became a signature attraction at Coney Island. Designed by Herb Schmeck and manufactured by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the ride stood at 88 feet in height, reaching speeds of approximately 43 mph over its 2,950 feet of track.

I had enjoyed countless rides on various attractions at Coney Island, building up to the big one – the Shooting Star. However, fear held me back from experiencing this iconic coaster until the final day of its operation on September 6, 1971. Determined to conquer my apprehension, I entered the queue, sat in the red train, only to be overwhelmed by the screams of riders and the thunderous noise of the blue train roaring through the tunnel on its way back to the station.

Regrettably, I succumbed to fear, swiftly exiting the ride before it started. Little did I know, that impulsive decision would become the sole regret in my amusement park adventures. The Shooting Star, with its red cars waiting eagerly in the station, became the one that got away.

Each year, on September 6, the anniversary of that fateful day, I’m reminded of the missed opportunity to ride the Shooting Star.

Years later, I found solace in riding a mirror image of the Shooting Star – the Mighty Canadian Minebuster at Canada’s Wonderland. Opening in 1981, it allowed me to experience the thrills I had once foregone.

Yet, the nostalgia of the Shooting Star lingers, a poignant reminder of a childhood decision I wish I could reverse. Oh, what I’d give now to go back in time and embrace the opportunity to ride that iconic coaster, relishing the adrenaline rush and creating a memory that would last a lifetime.

Required reading: Goodbye, Coney Island. This Time for Good