Central Florida is winning this weekend’s new “roller coaster” at the wild and eccentric Red Bull competition held at Alta Monte Springs.
The Red Bull Tandem Rollercoaster offers an interesting and twisty view that includes a decorated bike and a pair of riders navigating a track filled with obstacles on either side with water. The event will estimate more than 30,000 attendees on Saturday using Crane Roost Park.
After receiving over 300 applications, Red Bull selected 30 teams (each with two riders) to navigate the course. They will be judged by a panel of three judges: Orlando Magic Legend Dwight Howard, Central Florida-based professional wakeboarder Megan Ether and social media creator Zack Fairhurst (@maddzak).
“It’s definitely an honor to be on the judging board and I’m really excited to see all the different crafts and teams this weekend,” Ethel said. “I was really hyped to see this event turn into a US debut. It’s a great fit to bring that to Central Florida, the world’s Gent Coaster capital.”
In Orlando, team names range from “Banana Boa” to “Daft Hank”, “Golden Usch Girls” and “Monorail Mayhem”. Online polls for the People’s Choice Award show bikes designed to look like dragons, sharks, fire trucks, DeLoreans and crocodiles.
The bike-focused challenge began in 2023 in the Netherlands under the name Stalen ROS. Dozens of competitors went head-on to navigate obstacles like drawbridges and cobblestones, combining artistic design with cycling skills.
Following the success of several European productions, including “Colomolo” in Prague, “Sattelfest” in Germany, “Tandem Kapen” in Sweden, and “Vell” in Belgium, Red Bull saw an opportunity to bring the event to the government of the state.
Pat Bates, Mayor of Altamonte Springs, encouraged the community to come and see the sights in person.
“Whether you’re a competitor, a fan, family, or a first-time visitor, we’re excited to be part of a day filled with laughter, adoration and excitement,” she said at a news conference announcing the event.
The Orlando roller coaster-inspired track rendering shows two humps right after the launch pad, followed by curved balms and drops. The finish line and victory bell sit right next to the water tunnel.
“It’s about fun and showmanship. There’s a bit of competitiveness, but I think it’s mainly about fun,” said Guenther Oka, a professional wakeboarder based in Orlando and Red Bull athlete. “Getting a bike from point A to point B without falling into the water seems to be a team’s number one prize, but I think there’s an interesting leak along the way.”
Jay Zenbower, chairman of the Seminole County Commission, said the event represents an exciting opportunity for the outdoor-centric community.
“Seminole County has built a national reputation for sports tourism and outdoor adventure. We are known for its world-class sports facilities, miles of scenic trails and a community that embraces bold ideas. Red Bull’s tandem roller coaster fits it perfectly.
Jason Siegel, president and CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, said the event will add to the growing tally of sporting events that bring visitors and tourist dollars to Seminole County.
“If we look at our activities in Seminole County over the past decade, we’ve had over 800 events with 1.6 million visitors and an economic impact of over $370 million,” he said. “We are extremely proud that many sports organisations, including FIFA, NCA, WWE, and MLS, have held events in Seminole County, and we are truly proud to be able to add Red Bull to our portfolio.”
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If you’re going
The Red Bull Tandem RollerCoaster will open at 10am, with a competition opening at 274 Cranes Roost Park Blvd on September 27th, with free admission. Alta Monte Springs. No tickets are required to participate in the event. The event will be streamed on Red Bull’s YouTube channel from 4:30pm on Saturdays. More information: redbull.com
