Let’s look back at the 2025 ACE Preservation Conference, where members gathered in California for three unforgettable days celebrating the history and preservation of classic parks and roller coasters.
From the thrills of Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia to the marine magic of SeaWorld San Diego and seaside charm of Belmont Park, host Jessica Gardner and podcast producer, ACE Communications Director Derek Perry relive the highlights of the weekend.
Then, the audio from Tim Cole’s presentation on how he helped save Belmont Park and the Giant Dipper is shared. Learn more about the park’s history and his efforts by checking out his book Saving Belmont: An Up and Down Journey.
Don’t forget to check out the recap of the weekend on ACE’s Youtube page
1:32 - Six Flags Magic Mountain
7:33 - SeaWorld San Diego
10:40 - Belmont Park
13:11 - The ACE Centennial Award
15:55 - Tim Cole’s Presentation
17:25 - History of Belmont Park and Giant Dipper
25:22 - How Tim Cole got into roller coasters
27:50 - The Gigantic first ride
29:22 - The closure
34:50 - Getting involved
41:29 - The Save The Coaster Committee
49:00 - Top Gun
54:10 - August 1990 - The first test run
54:31 - Q&A and Tim’s message to ACE
58:19 - Preservation Conference 2026, Volunteer Appreciation
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Podcast Episode Team
Host: Jessica Gardner
Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry
Episode Editors: Bob Randolph, Ben Weinrach and Derek Perry
Correspondent: Gerik Gooch
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!