The Zipper may make a comeback

The iconic, always popular Stampede Zipper ride may be gone this year but could make a comeback if the ride’s manufacturer can spark enough interest for its newly designed model.

“We have reached out and we are in discussions right now,” said Lisa Hargrove, marketing manager with Chance Rides based in Wichita, Kansas.

“We can take the old ride, completely refurbish it and provide it with our new seating, with clear cage doors. It’s more social mediafriendly and it allows everyone to see in and see out much better.”

After reports earlier this week that the Zipper has been retired from the Stampede, Chance Rides issued a news release saying it still provides maintenance and is building newer models.

Hargrove told Postmedia the newer Zipper model has clear cages, with no metal, so riders can see in and out more clearly. The design also allows people to take better pictures to post on social media.

“The newer seat design also offers just a more dynamic experience, you can just see more when you are riding and flipping.”

Gregg (Scooter) Korek, vice-president of client relations at North American Midway Entertainment, said earlier this week the Zipper “is just plain worn out” and won’t be part of their midway presentation for 2017. But Hargrove said Chance Rides wants to work with North American Midway Entertainment to bring back the Zipper.

Korek said while he couldn’t commit to bringing back the ride next year, the firm is always revisiting its outdoor fair presentation and the Zipper would likely be raised as part of those discussions.

“We are always scouring the world for the best rides out there to fit our presentation,” said Korek, who is in Calgary this week.

Korek agreed discussions around bringing the Zipper back would be a natural part of that process, simply because of its popularity.