RCCGB Blackpool Bash 2013

Date: Friday 5 April to Sunday 7 April 2013
Venue: Pleasure Beach Resort, Blackpool
Who Went: Me and a large number of other RCCGB members, including Andy and Christine Hine, Alan Chilvers, Adam Bysouth, Adey, Kellie and Katelyn, Andy Hunter, AndyT, Barry, Brian (mophead), Carl May, Dave Maryan, Death, Derek, Julie, Alan and Saffron Eddy, Emma Roids, Francis Price, Gareth Arkell, Gareth Preece, John Musk, Kelly Cameron, Looping Lee, Mary (Regatta) and Andy Knight, Mark Blundell, Matt Walker, Matthew Bauckham, Peter, Lauren and Aidan O'Brien, Planenut, Robert Nutter, Ryan Hackett, Sam & Penny, Tom Hey, Wendy Evans.

DISCLAIMER: The above is NOT intended to be an exhaustive list of everyone who attended. It's a small sample of attendees; mainly those who performed billed or Gong Show acts Saturday night, and/or who I spoke to / rode with over the weekend. I sincerely apologise to anyone else who was there and I've not listed. Not all attendees (whether or not listed above) attended the event in its entirety.

Introduction

The Club's annual UK mega-trip to start the new coaster season. Once again the Blackpool Bash was a great success, with three professional entertainers Friday night, a day of riding Saturday daytime (including the morning and late afternoon ERSs), a fancy dress party with songs, games, the Gong Show and a disco Saturday evening, and another ERS Sunday morning. A great turnout too with around 400 of us there from all over the UK (my list above is just a handful of them). I was determined as ever to attend the Blackpool Bash, and for the first time ever performed a billed act Saturday evening.

To make the rest of this report easier to read, I've split it into sections. Click the applicable link below to jump to the section you want to read:
Thursday 4 April
Day One - Friday 5 April
Day Two - Saturday 6 April (daytime)
Day Two - Saturday 6 April (evening)
Day Three - Sunday 7 April
Outro

Enjoy my report at your leisure.

Thursday 4 April

Getting To Blackpool

Just like last year, I travelled to Blackpool by train the afternoon of Thursday 4 April, leaving Bath Spa soon after midday. It was a pleasant journey, requiring four trains: the 12:12 Bath Spa to Bristol Temple Meads, followed by the 13:21 to Newport (Gwent), 14:19 to Manchester Piccadilly (via the Hereford line) and finally the 17:27 to Blackpool North. Having finally reached Blackpool North just before 7pm, I took a short walk, and from a bus stop near Wilkinson caught a bus to the Pleasure Beach. After that, I checked into my pre-booked hotel for three nights. It was the same hotel, close to Pleasure Beach Resort, that I stayed at 2008 to 2012 inclusive.

Thursday Evening

Around 7:40pm I went to The Auctioneer (Wetherspoons) for an evening meal. Although it was Curry Club night, I decided to choose something from the main menu, rather than a Curry Club meal. After looking at the menu, I chose Piri piri chicken (served with chips, a pot of sauce and a pot of coleslaw) for main course, Eli's original baked vanilla cheesecake for dessert, and half a pint of Heineken to drink. Whilst there I unexpectedly met Barry (Rolf Harris lookalike) and spoke to him for a bit after my meal. Barry and I left The Auctioneer together and continued talking, we finally said goodbye outside William Hill. I returned to my hotel and relaxed in my room the rest of the evening.

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Day One - Friday 5 April

Daytime

Travelling Thursday afternoon gained me a day in Blackpool. For me Friday began with a delicious breakfast: cereal, a full English breakfast and toast. I spent the day at Sandcastle Water Park, and was in the pool / slides area from approximately 11:15am until closing time of 6pm. A separate report about my day there is available here. After leaving Sandcastle Water Park I returned to my hotel briefly to prepare for the evening.

Early Evening

Around 6:50pm I went to Pablo's Fish and Chips for a Pablo's Special, i.e. fish, chips, mushy peas, bread and butter, plus fizzy drink. Fish and chips is a must-have in Blackpool. I met Planenut there, so I sat at the same table as him. We had plenty to talk about together. When I finished my fish and chips, I had a Sundae Special for dessert. Having left Pablo's around 7:30pm, I went into Lucky Star Amusements and ascended their escalator, so effectively that was my first "ride" in Blackpool.

Friday Fun

The Blackpool Bash officially began when the Paradise Room doors opened. Around 7:40pm I entered the Paradise Room via the spiral stairs at Noah's Ark end. Everyone was given a free welcome pack on entry. Food was available to buy, but I didn't buy any as I'd just eaten. Having bought myself half a Fosters, I sat at a table close to the corner of the stage; my seat was with my back to the stage, so I turned the chair to face the stage.

Andy's Welcome

The fun really began when Andy Hine appeared and said his annual catchphrase. "Everybody say Blackpool". Afterwards he admitted that, due to health and safety regulations, he would not now be able to do the stage act with another member that he was planning to start the show with. To fill time he carried on talking and showed us the 25th anniversary mugs. This was followed by three acts.

Act 1: Rob Gaffney

The first proper act was magician Rob Gaffney, accompanied by his puppet in the box. At one point Rob called a member on stage to take part in a card trick. In my opinion the best bit was the number challenge, where everyone had to think of a number between 1 and 9. My starting number was 8. After a series of announced calculations it ended up becoming 4, which translated to the letter D. Everyone then had to (i) think of a country whose name begins with that letter (I thought of Denmark), (ii) take the country's second letter and think of an animal starting with that letter (I thought of elephant), and (iii) think of that animal's colour, i.e. grey for an elephant. The puppet in the box did some mind reading, and it seemed the puppet pointed towards me. Anyway the puppet guessed the target person was thinking of grey elephants in Denmark, that corresponded exactly to what I thought of (Denmark - elephant - grey). I was amazed, did the puppet really pick on me (above anyone else) and figure out what I was thinking of?

Act 2: Nicky Miller

To get us in the mood for Eurovision-themed Saturday, Nicky Miller sang several songs, starting with "Be My Baby". Although most of the songs weren't actual Eurovision songs, some were by artists that had represented countries in the Eurovision Song Contest in the past, e.g. Celine Dion - "I'm Alive". One actual past Eurovision song was "Boom Bang A Bang" by Lulu, which won for the UK in 1969 (along with three other countries). Nicky's final song was intended to be "Somebody to Love" by Queen. However when Nev reappeared, there was enough demand for one more song, so Nicky performed ABBA's "Waterloo" which won the Eurovision Song Contest for Sweden in 1974, and many including me sang along. When she finished singing "Waterloo", it was time for a 15 minute interval. Now was a convenient opportunity for members to get another drink, so I bought myself an orange juice and lemonade.

Act 3: Craig Harper

After the interval Craig Harper amused everyone with jokes and songs for over an hour. Craig told plenty of amusing jokes on stage. He recognised me from his previous Blackpool Bash appearance in 2009, and I reminded him of my mention of the Weymouth Super Snails back then. Standing in front of the stage, he let me speak into the microphone to share my words with the audience, and also show everyone my "I am 14 backwards" T-shirt from my September 2012 birthday. In addition Craig sang a few songs including "Hero" by Enrique Iglesias and "Rule The World" by Take That (during which he asked the audience to hold up something that lights up). He rounded off his act by singing "Time to Say Goodbye" by Andrea Bocelli in Italian. As soon as Craig finished singing, Nev reappeared, and said Craig could have a few more minutes on stage.

Drinking Up Time

When Craig finally finished performing, Nev announced that Friday Fun was now over. There was still time to finish our drinks, but we had to be out by 11pm. I had my photo taken with Craig. Also I spoke to a few other members before heading back to my hotel for the night.

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Day Two - Saturday 6 April (daytime)

First Thing

I asked for an early breakfast at 8:20am so that I could be at the Paradise Room at 8:45am or soon after. I chose beans on toast as a lighter alternative to a full English (which I felt would be too risky before riding Big One, Steeplechase and the rest).

Initial Meet-Up

Members were asked to meet in the Paradise Room at 8:45am, however it was nearer to 9:00am when I entered via the staircase at the north end of the building. To save having to return to my hotel early evening, I took everything I needed for the evening (camcorder and tripod, black shoes, etc.) and placed them in a dressing room back stage. Once inside I met the Eddy family and spoke to them for a few minutes. I was particularly pleased to meet them as the last time we'd met was the Adventure Island meet-up in July 2011; they weren't at the 2012 Blackpool Bash. Eventually I queued to be issued with my ride wristband, Park Pass and drink voucher. Just like last year, there was no lunch voucher this time.

Photo Call

At 9:45am we entered the Park. The sun was shining. Everyone gathered by the entrance to Grand National for a group photo. This took a few minutes.

Morning ERS

Afterwards we headed to the far end of the Park for the morning ERS on Big One, Steeplechase and Revolution. Three coasters, beat that for one ERS.

Just like the Blackpool Bash 2008 to 2012 inclusive, I wanted to start the day on Big One. As I stood at the entrance, workmen were checking the wheels on the train which was standing just outside the station entrance. A few minutes later members were allowed up the queue ramp as far as the riders' station entrance. However no-one was allowed into the station itself as the doors were closed. I was very close to the front of the queue (there were only two or three in front of me). I waited and waited, whilst at the same time being able to see other members riding Revolution. At 11:18 I decided enough was enough, and walked back down the entrance ramp.

Revolution

Having felt I'd already wasted some ERS time, I decided to start the day on Revolution. This Arrow Dynamics Launched Loop sit down steel coaster has been operating at PBR Blackpool since 1979. It was originally called Revolution from 1979 to some time in the 1990s. From then until 2011 it was called Irn-Bru Revolution. Early 2012 the orange structure was repainted grey and the ride reverted to its original name Revolution. I enjoyed two goes, as follows:

First go: back row. The train set off, went downhill, around the vertical loop, uphill and along a flat section where it suddenly ground to an abrupt halt. After a brief pause, the train went backwards through the loop until it was back at the station. Wow, a fast and thrilling ride, but I'm not sure whether going forwards or backwards was better.

Second go: second row from the front. This time I sat next to another RCCGB member who had not previously ridden this and therefore didn't know what to expect. To avoid spoiling the surprise for him, I didn't explain what was about to happen. He seemed surprised when the train ground to a halt, and the need to go backwards to return to the station.

Steeplechase

This Arrow Dynamics Special Coaster Systems steel coaster has been operating at PBR Blackpool since 1977. There are three separate tracks, completely independent of each other, which is why Steeplechase is sometimes regarded as three separate coasters. Coaster-Count classes it as three coasters, whereas Ride Count classes the three tracks as one coaster. Each track has individual horses as ride cars, and each horse can seat two riders. All three lanes were running, so I was determined to re-ride all three tracks. However it is possible to have just one or two tracks running. Although tame compared to Revolution and PMBO, I love its racing element, hoping to be first home. As the ERS progressed, I had time for three goes.

First go: I rode horse number 5 on the red track. Along the way I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and called out "Giddy up, people have bet their money on you". My horse won.

Second go: I rode horse number 10 on the green track. Once again I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and called out "Giddy up, people have bet their money on you" during the course of the ride. My horse won.

Third go: I rode horse 11 on the yellow track. Just like my previous two goes, I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and called out "Giddy up, people have bet their money on you". This time my horse finished last; the horse on the red track won, the horse on the green track finished second, and my horse on the yellow track finished way behind.

Well they say you can't win them all; I suppose I did well to win two of my three goes, and finish last on just one of them.

Big One

This Arrow Dynamics Hyper Coaster has been operating at PBR Blackpool since 28 May 1994. From 1994 to 2011 it was called Pepsi Max Big One, but since 2012 it has been known simply as Big One. Nonetheless the giant Pepsi Max can tunnel that the train goes through just after leaving the station is still there. Big One is one of five coasters of this model currently operating worldwide. Back in 1994 Big One was the tallest, fastest, steepest coaster in Europe, but sadly that's no longer the case. Although its maximum height of 213' (64.9 m) means it's still the UK's tallest coaster, it's now only the third tallest coaster operating in Europe. According to the Roller Coaster Database, Big One's top speed of 74 mph means it's now only the second fastest coaster in the UK, and sixth fastest currently operating coaster (soon to become seventh when ring°racer at Nürburgring, Germany opens) in Europe. It's certainly not the steepest any more, now there's Stealth, Rage and Mumbo Jumbo. The station announcement has now been amended to say "one of the tallest, fastest, steepest coasters in Europe".

The time was now just gone 11:00. At the entrance to Big One, I asked an attendant what the latest situation was with Big One. It was currently working, but due to problems with it earlier, our ERS had been extended to 11:30 to make sure we still had our full hour on it. Therefore I decided to have a go (possibly two) on it now. Although the queue was inside the station building, there was quite a wait for the loading point. When I reached one of the platform gates, a siren sounded and there was an announcement stating there was a problem, but they hoped to have the train running again soon. Riders from the preceding go were trapped on the train behind the station! Someone went to investigate, a few minutes later the train returned to the station. Once those riders left the train, all was fine to do another run.

I got on near the back. The train exited the station, went through the Pepsi can tunnel, up the lift hill, down the steep first drop, over the subsequent undulations and back to the station without any further problems. Altogether a mega fun ride on what is one of my favourite steel coasters; I remained quiet (no screaming) throughout the journey. Sadly this one go was my only go on this coaster this ERS, and indeed the whole day.

Morning Free Time

Once I left Big One, the morning ERS was over. Members spread themselves around the Pleasure Beach and took over the rides.

Big Dipper

I never rode this famous woodie at all during last year's Blackpool Bash due to problems with it during the Sunday morning ERS. Determined to ride all five woodies at Pleasure Beach in one day for the first time ever, I deliberately decided to start morning free time by riding Big Dipper. This sit down wooden coaster was built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. and has been operating since 1923. The train set off around the bend, through the tunnel, around another bend, up the lift hill, around another bend, down the first drop and over all the subsequent undulations out and back to the station. Altogether an exciting ride; my first go of the day on a wooden coaster, and my first time of riding Big Dipper on the Saturday of a Blackpool Bash (previous years I deliberately avoided this Saturday knowing we'd be riding it during the Sunday morning ERS). For now I only had one go, which ended up being my only go on this all day.

River Caves

The queue for this boat ride was very short, so I faced just a few minutes wait. My boat sailed through a series of chambers, each with a different scene. One chamber featured stalagmites and stalactites. Towards the end, my boat went uphill, along the outdoor section (which you can see from the path) and down a drop, to create a splash. This was my only go on here all day.

When I left River Caves the time was 12:27. Without further ado I decided to go to the Paradise Room for lunch.

Lunch At Paradise Room

I entered the Paradise Room via the spiral stairs at Noah's Ark end. Once inside I headed straight for the bar and used my drink voucher to get a glass of Pepsi Cola. Being as this year's Blackpool Bash was Eurovision themed, Eurovision songs were being played as background music. There was a very long queue for food; I suddenly I felt I ought to have had one more ride and gone to the Paradise Room around 12:50pm. For now looked at the merchandise table, and bought myself a RCCGB 25th anniversary T-shirt.

Now that the food queue was considerably shorter, I joined the back of it. I had chicken, fries, bread roll and butter. A vegetarian alternative to chicken was available. Having been served I went to a separate table to help myself to coleslaw and side salad before sitting down to enjoy my meal.

During lunch there were speeches from Andy Hine and David Cam. Andy Hine was presented with a chrome plated link from the Grand National lift chain. Two RCCGB 25th anniversary cakes were unveiled. They were well photographed by many members including me. Eventually the larger one was cut into small portions for members to have, so I had a piece. It was really delicious, two layers of light sponge with cream in the middle.

Afternoon Free Time

At 1:52pm I left the Paradise Room and returned to the Pleasure Beach.

Wild Mouse

My first ride after lunch, and my second ride on a woodie for today. According to the Roller Coaster Database, this wooden mouse coaster was built in-house by Frank Wright, and has been operating since 1958. The queue wasn't all that long, I didn't time it but I guess I must have waited about 10 to 15 minutes. When it was my turn I got into car number 7 (Gazza). The car climbed the lift hill, and worked its way downwards through several sharp hairpin bends along the way. This made for quite a rough ride. I noticed AIRtime on the dips near the end. This was my only go on Wild Mouse all day.

Grand Prix

A car ride, whereby the cars run on what resembles a giant Scalextric track. I sat in car number 3, which is red, and was taken down the spiral (like in a multi-storey car park), towards Big One and back, then up the spiral back to the station. Depending on your take of things, you could perhaps class it as a coaster, considering it has ride cars which run on a track, that spirals down and up hill. What do you think? Coaster or not coaster? Although quite a tame ride really, it was worth one go to say I'd been on it this trip.

At this point I headed into Nickelodeon Land. I most wanted to ride Nickelodeon Streak and Blue Flyer there, but was keen to ride some of the other rides there as well.

The Krusty Krab Order Up!

Formerly Fruit Shoot The Ride in the Beaver Creek section until 2010, this Moser Rides drop tower was re-themed and renamed The Krusty Krab Order Up for inclusion in Nickelodeon Land in 2011. It has two seat units (one each side of the tower). This was quite a tame ride; the unit went up and down a few times and that was it. There was nothing scary about this. I would guess they had this on a mild setting; I'm pretty sure the last time I rode Jumping Bean at Paultons (also a Moser Rides drop tower) in September 2010 I had more up-down cycles and a more exciting ride experience. I only rode this once.

Dora's World Voyage

A boat ride introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011. I got into a boat which sailed around the canal start to finish through different zones: France, Russia, Tanzania and China. A song was played on the boat, repeatedly mentioning "Hello" in the applicable language, e.g. Bonjour in France. Obviously the words changed at the zone transitions. This was my only ride on here all day

Spongebob's Splash Bash

Sets of circular boats on small turntables. The small turntables spin on a larger turntable which also spins. The effect is a bit like riding a twister or waltzer ride but not as fast. At the start of the ride the turntables sink so the area is flooded. Each boat has water cannons, so whilst the ride is in motion you can squirt riders on other boats, and on-lookers outside the ride. Be warned though, riders on other boats may squirt you back. There are also water cannons outside the ride, which allow on-lookers to squirt riders. Another fun ride, but be warned, you will probably get a bit wet on this ride. My one go now was my only go on this all day.

Fairy World Taxi Spin

This was introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011 and features taxis on the ends of spokes. If you are sitting in the front seat you can press a button to make the taxi go up. The taxi is lowered when the button is released. I got into the front seat of car number 2. Although a tame ride, it was worth one go increase my cumulative count on it to-date. This was my only go on Fairy World Taxi Spin all day.

Diego's Rainforest Rescue

Another ride introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011, a set of balloons around a tower. I got into basket number 6. The balloons began travelling around the tower. Shortly afterwards the set of balloons rose to the tower top where they continued travelling around the tower high up. Eventually the balloon cluster descended to ground level and the ride completely stopped. This was my only go on Diego's Rainforest Rescue all day.

Blue Flyer

My third wooden coaster for today. This wooden coaster (built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc.) originally operated as Zipper Dipper from 1934 to 2010. At the start of 2011 it was repainted blue and re-themed as Blue Flyer, part of the new Nickelodeon Land section. Although the resort's smallest wooden coaster, it was great fun. I enjoyed two goes on this little woodie: one in the second-from-back row, followed by one in the front row. There were pops of AIRtime on the dips.

Grand National ERS

It was now time for our ERS on the Resort's classic twin track Möbius racing wooden coaster Grand National. This was built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. and has been operating since 1935. According to the RCDB, its maximum height of 62' (18.9 m) makes it the tallest of the five wooden coasters at PBR Blackpool, but only the third tallest currently operating wooden coaster in the UK. Due to the way the coaster is designed, on one go you depart from one platform and return to the station on the opposite platform. The platform you depart from at the start of your ride dictates which lift hill (left or right facing upwards) your train ascends. Doing a complete circuit of the track back to where you get on would require two consecutive goes without getting off in between. Consequently you could class this coaster as two coasters. Coaster-Count classes it as two coasters; whereas Ride Count classes the whole thing as one coaster.

The Grand National ERS was billed to run from 4pm to 5pm. When I got there at 4:07pm the ERS was already under way. I had to show my trip badge to gain access to this coaster. During the ERS I had time for three goes.

First go (left lift hill): I sat in the back row of the green train which climbed the left lift hill. Opponent blue train on the right lift hill. Along the way I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and shouted "Giddy up, we want our train to win". The finish was inconclusive; it seemed more or less neck and neck to me.

Second go (right lift hill): I was on the maroon train which climbed the right lift hill. Opponent red train on the left lift hill. Again I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and shouted "Giddy up, people have got their money bet on this train". Result the maroon train (my train) won by a wide margin, whereas the red train lost. Wonderful!

Third go (right lift hill): I was on the green train which climbed the right lift hill. Opponent blue train on the left lift hill. Yet again I sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and shouted "Giddy up, we want our train to win, don't let the other train catch us. Result: the green train (my train) won by a wide margin and the blue train lost. Hurray!

Altogether another fun ERS. It was really satisfying to have this coaster to ourselves on the day of the famous Grand National race at Aintree for the second year running, indeed roughly the time of the actual race (which was scheduled to start at 4:15pm). I was really pleased my train won by a huge margin on two of my three goes.

Early Evening Free Time

After the ERS ended at 5:00pm, members returned to their hotels to relax and prepare for the evening, or rode until closing time (8pm). Having finally left Grand National at 5:08pm, I continued riding until 6:40pm. In that time I rode the following once each.

Avalanche

This Mack Rides Bobsled coaster has been operating at PBR Blackpool since 22 June 1988, the same year as the RCCGB started. Therefore it was all the more important for me to ride this during the Blackpool Bash 2013 which marked the Club's 25th anniversary. According to the RCDB, it is one of six coasters of this model (five of which are currently operating) worldwide. Avalanche has a track length of 1490' (454.2 m) and no inversions. Seated in the back row, I remained quiet and totally relaxed for the entire journey. As far as I'm concerned, it's not scary at all; more a gentle rest ride. This was my only go on here all day.

Tetley Tea Cup Ride

Appropriately sponsored by Tetley, this differs from a normal tea cup ride in that there are two turntables, with notches in. The cups cleverly swap from one turntable to the other when the notches meet in the middle. Each cup has a centre table, but unlike a normal tea cup ride, you can't turn it to spin the cup faster, the cups just spin themselves.

So far I'd ridden four out of five wooden roller coasters at Pleasure Beach Resort, i.e. Big Dipper, Wild Mouse, Blue Flyer and Grand National. That just left Nickelodeon Streak. Determined to ride it, I headed for Nickelodeon Streak next.

Nickelodeon Streak

This classic woodie was built by Charles Paige and was originally called Roller Coaster from 1933 to 2010. Early 2011 it was repainted orange and re-themed Nickelodeon Streak, part of the new Nickelodeon Land section. This was my only go on this coaster all day. With a maximum height of 61' (18.6 m) Nickelodeon Streak is surprisingly taller than Big Dipper (60' or 18.3 m).

At this point I felt really proud to have ridden all five wooden coasters at Pleasure Beach Resort in one day for the first time ever. I wanted to go on Big One next, but when I got there it was closed. Feeling disappointed I headed for Infusion instead.

Infusion

This Vekoma SLC (689m Standard) inverted steel coaster originally operated as Traumatizer at Pleasureland Southport from 1999 to 5 Sep 2006. Since 2 May 2007 it has been operating as Infusion at Pleasure Beach Resort Blackpool. Its 689 metre (2260' 6" ) track length explains its model name. The train climbed the lift hill to a maximum height of 109' 3" (33.3 m), descended the first drop and went around a vertical loop followed by many more thrilling features. I had just one go in the back row.

Flying Machines

My final ride of the day, I sat in plane GT1. The planes start going anticlockwise close to the platform, and are gradually angled further outwards. At the maximum extent you are sitting at a fairly steep angle. Eventually the planes head back inwards, until you're back with the platform.

Summary of my day in order of activity

Morning ERS: Revolution 2, Steeplechase 3 (red track 1, green track 1, yellow track 1), Big One 1

Big Dipper 1
River Caves 1

Lunch in the Paradise Room

Wild Mouse 1
Grand Prix 1
The Krusty Krab Order Up! 1
Dora's World Voyage 1
Spongebob's Splash Bash 1
Fairy World Taxi Spin 1
Diego's Rainforest Rescue 1
Blue Flyer 2

Afternoon ERS: Grand National 3 (left lift hill, right lift hill, right lift hill)

Avalanche 1
Tetley Tea Cup Ride 1
Nickelodeon Streak 1
Infusion 1
Flying Machines 1

Cumulative Summary of My Rides (ERSs and Free Time Combined)

Ride	Total
Avalanche	1
Big Dipper	1
Big One	1
Blue Flyer	2
Diego's Rainforest Rescue	1
Dora's World Voyage	1
Fairy World Taxi Spin	1
Flying Machines	1
Grand National	3
Grand Prix	1
Infusion	1
Nickelodeon Streak	1
Revolution	2
River Caves	1
Spongebob's Splash Bash	1
Steeplechase	3
Tetley Tea Cup Ride	1
The Krusty Krab Order Up!	1
Wild Mouse	1
TOTAL	25

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Day Two - Saturday 6 April (evening)

Coaster Crazy Show

At 6:40pm I had to leave Pleasure Beach to allow time for a rehearsal in the Paradise Room. Thinking the doors to the Paradise Room at the top of the spiral stairs (Noah's Ark end) might be locked, I headed straight for the entrance at the north end. Thankfully that was open so I was able to ascend the stairs at that end and thus enter the Paradise Room that way. Once inside rehearsals were taking place. Immediately I chose my seat for the evening; a table roughly opposite the stage front. Next I met Brian, Tom and Death and we had one "Hard Rock Hallelujah" rehearsal on stage together. Afterwards we practised it twice more in the dressing room back stage. I also tried on the monster outfit Brian had made for me. All was fine but I removed it afterwards as our plan was to get into monster outfits just before our performance.

For now I put on my UEFA Euro 2012 T-shirt, as that's got Poland-Ukraine on it. The loose connection with Eurovision was that Poland and Ukraine have both taken part in the Eurovision Song Contest; Poland finished second on their debut entry in 1994; Ukraine won in 2004 and were second with Verka Serduchka - "Dancing Lasha Tumbai" in 2007. I also put on a pair of black sports shorts. Afterwards I set up my camcorder and tripod. My seat facing the table was with my back to the stage, so when the show began I turned my chair to face the stage.

Around 7:45pm the doors opened to members not taking part. This year's theme was Eurovision, and many dressed in something connected with the Eurovision Song Contest. Some wrapped a flag around themselves. One group of four dressed as ABBA. Peter O'Brien, Lauren and Aidan wore Eurovision country T-shirts (Ireland, Greece and Spain respectively) which they had made themselves; each of which had Eurovision, country name and flag on the front, and "Winners" plus relevant years on the back.

Show Opener: Alan Chilvers, Paul and Emma

As expected the show began with Charpentier's Te Deum prelude "Marche en rondeau", just like the start of every Eurovision Song Contest. This was followed by Alan Chilvers, Paul and Emma singing a parodised version of "One Vision" (Queen), which had certain lyrics replaced with "Eurovision" and "competition".

Welcome: Andy Hine

When the above act ended, Nev appeared to give his opening speech.

Act 1: Kelly Cameron - "Ooh Ahh Just A Little Bit"

The first Eurovision song of the night, "Ooh Ahh Just A Little Bit", originally performed by Gina G for the UK in 1996. Kelly gave a first class performance of this song, and attracted much cheering and applause at the end.

At the end of this act I went back stage to get ready for my act a little later, i.e. putting on my monster outfit, mask and wig.

Game 1: Yes/No

Nev reappeared to present the first game of the evening. Six contestants were chosen earlier in the day. Each contestant had to answer Nev's questions for one minute without replying "Yes" or "No". An additional rule was that pausing or giving irrelevant answers would result in being out. The six contestants were as follows (the time each one lasted is shown alongside the name):

Lee Bennett - 25 seconds.
Robert Nutter - 21 seconds
Mark Millions - one minute
Adam Bysouth - one minute
John Musk - 18 seconds
Francis Price - 53 seconds

Top three: Mark Millions, Adam Bysouth, Francis Price. They went on to game 3 later.

Act 2: The Coaster Kids - "Save Your Coasters For Me"

Four girls who have been in the Gong Show the last couple of years. This year they were back to perform a billed act: their own rewritten version of "Save Your Kisses For Me" (Brotherhood of Man's winning song for the UK in 1976). The Coaster Kids' version was called "Save Your Coasters For Me". As well as the change to the title, a few other lyrics were replaced with coaster related words, e.g. "Gonna climb out the car". At the end Nev asked "Did you spot the change in words?".

Act 3: Nemesis Nick, Death, Tom Hey and Brian (mophead) - "Hard Rock Hallelujah"

Immediately afterwards Nev was dragged back behind the curtains, and I appeared through the curtains, shortly followed by Death, Tom Hey and Brian (mophead) to sing "Hard Rock Hallelujah" (the winning song by Lordi for Finland in 2006). For those who are unsure, this was the act with the monsters; though obviously it was difficult to tell who was who during the performance as we were wearing masks. This was my first time of revealing my Lordi outfit (which doubled as my official Eurovision fancy dress outfit for this year) to the audience for the first time. I was the lead singer, and the others joined in for certain parts. As soon as we finished we went behind the curtains and Nev reappeared saying "Thank you Lordi". Nev then called us back briefly to say who was who. Our act was greatly appreciated by the audience and attracted much cheering and applause.

Game 2: Kids' Gopher

It was now time for the second of tonight's games, this one solely for children. Ten children entered at the start. Unfortunately two girls sat neck and neck on one chair. To resolve the problem, Nev asked Alan Chilvers for an eleventh chair. Thus just for once there were eleven children at the start. When called, they ran into the audience to fetch an item specified by Nev, e.g. watch, hotel key, camera. The time it took all the children to find the required item varied considerably. Each time they returned there was one less chair, forcing the child unable to find a seat out, just like musical chairs. Well done to Grace who won the competition, she won a Nickelodeon goodie bag.

Here is the complete list of items the children were asked to get:
Coaster T-shirt
Purse or wallet
Watch
Hotel key
Any coaster club membership card
Photo of a loved one
Camera
Something edible
Anything made of rubber
Two finalists: Sit on a lap of an American

Act 4: Dave Maryan - "That's Life"

Last year's Gong Show winner Dave Maryan was back this year to perform a billed act "That's Life". Once again he gave an outstanding performance and attracted much cheering and applause at the end.

The Gong Show

It was now time for the famous Gong Show, which consisted of nine acts.

Gong Act 1: SuperDini and Emma Roids - Escapologist

The first gong act featured Alan Chilvers as escapologist SuperDini, and his assistant Emma Roids. SuperDini was placed in a sack, handcuffed and blindfolded. People started booing them during this time, but Nev insisted SuperDini have the chance to get completely into the sack before being booed off. Once the sack was tied he was given ten seconds to escape. The audience counted down ten to one. After that SuperDini still hadn't escaped so Nev sounded the horn.

Gong Act 2: Sam & Penny - Dancing and Accordion

Two first-timers Sam & Penny. Penny played the accordion quite well, whilst Sam danced along. Some initially clapped along, whereas fairly early some booed them. I shouted "More". Eventually more and more members of the audience started booing and Nev sounded the horn.

Gong Act 3: Fakir On - Snake Charmer

Fakir walked on stage, wearing a red fez and carrying a basket. He blew a recorder to charm a toy snake out of the basket. This attracted a mix of cheering and booing, it wasn't long before Nev blew the horn.

Gong Act 4: Carl May - Rap

Another first-timer, Carl performed a rap song he had written himself. The song was coaster-themed, it mentioned airtime, hang time and various coaster names. The chorus was "I've ridden 99 coasters and the Nash is one". He reached the end of his song with much cheering and applause. The first Gong Show act of the evening to reach the end without the horn going.

Gong Act 5: Barry & Dave - "Coaster Crazy"

Barry and Dave sang "Coaster Crazy", a coaster themed variation of "Wild Rover". Presumably they must have written it themselves. Whilst singing Barry played the tambourine. I thought it was quite a good effort, but anyway the horn went when they were mid-way through the second chorus.

Gong Act 6: Death

Nev admitted this needed no introduction. Death walked on stage with a saw blade attached to his right hand. After 20 seconds and plenty of booing the horn went.

Gong Act 7: Ella & Mollie - Dance

More Gong Show first-timers, two girls Ella & Mollie (otherwise known as CJ) dancing to "Wannabe" by the Spice Girls. They performed a well-choreographed dance which included jumping around and arm waving, one girl even did a cartwheel. They reached the end of the song, accompanied by much cheering and applause. They were only the second Gong act so far not to face the horn.

Gong Act 8: Matthew Bauckham & Dave - "Euphoria" / "Flying The Flag (For You)"

Matthew's act consisted of two Eurovision songs. He began on his knees singing the first verse and chorus of the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest winner "Euphoria" (Loreen - Sweden). Having got up he sang "Flying The Flag (For You)" - Scooch UK 2007 in its entirety. The audience clapped and cheered during the performance. Having reached the end of their act without the horn going, Matthew received plenty of cheering and applause.

Gong Act 9: Andy Hunter - Joe the camel

Andy brought a bag on stage. He opened the bag to reveal Joe the camel, which he held in front of a microphone. It wasn't long before Nev blew the horn. As the horn blew Andy jumped and waved his arm.

Vote for Best Act

Top four: Fakir On, Carl May, Ella & Mollie, Matthew Bauckham & Dave
Winners: Carl May, Ella & Mollie (two-way tie)

Vote for Worst Act

Bottom two: Death, Andy Hunter
Ultimate worst: Andy Hunter

The audience agreed that SuperDini should now be let out of the bag. When the sack was opened Emma Roids appeared. Evidently SuperDini and Emma must have swapped over back stage during the course of the Gong Show.

Act 5: Wendy Evans - Eurovision Medley

Back to the billed acts. Wendy Evans performed a medley of short bits of several past Eurovision songs as follows:
"Making Your Mind Up" - Bucks Fizz
"Save Your Kisses For Me" - Brotherhood of Man
"Boom-Bang-A-Bang" - Lulu
"Puppet On A String" - Sandie Shaw
"Love Shine A Light" - Katrina and the Waves

Interestingly they are all past UK Eurovision winners, of 1981, 1976, 1969, 1967 and 1997 respectively.

Game 3: Open the Box

The final game of the evening, Nev appeared with a set of nine boxes, arranged in a 3 x 3 manner. They were numbered 1 to 9 inclusive. The top three contestants (Mark Millions, Adam Bysouth, Francis Price) from game 1 returned to take part in this game one at a time. The first contestant had to pick a box. Nev asked the contestant whether he wanted to take the prize in the box, or the sum Nev was offering. By bidding Nev was willing to offer more and more up to a certain sum before the contestant had to make a final decision. The prize in the box may have been more valuable than what Nev was now offering to buy the box for; alternatively the box could contain a Post It! Notepad. Thus there was a risk to take in making one's decision. Nev announced what all nine hidden prizes were, without saying which box each one was in. The second contestant had to choose a box form the remaining eight, and the final contestant had to choose a box from the remaining seven. Unfortunately I don't have this entire game on video so am unsure of all the details; by the time this game started my camcorder battery had run out, but luckily I managed to connect the camcorder to a power point to get the end of the game and following act on video.

Act 6: Ryan and Co - "Dancing Lasha Tumbai"

It was now time for the finale. Originally performed as the finale to the 2008 Blackpool Bash, and back by popular demand, Ryan Hackett, Mark Blundell, Matt Walker and two others performed "Dancing Lasha Tumbai" (Verka Serduchka - Ukraine 2007). All five were dressed in their replica Verka Serduchka outfits they had made for their original performance in 2008. Members were encouraged to join in with the actions. Unfortunately I went back stage at the start of this act ready to reappear afterwards.

Thank you message: Andy Hine

At this point Nev reappeared to give a closing speech. He asked everyone to give a round of applause to everyone who had appeared on stage this evening. All those who had taken part in billed and gong acts during the course of the Coaster Crazy Show appeared, and Nev said "Ladies and gentlemen, the cast of tonight's Coaster Crazy Show.". Nev also thanked the staff including Peter and the sound and lighting technicians.

After Show Party

After Nev's closing speech the stage went down to form the dance floor for the disco which followed. To mark the Club's 25th anniversary, this year's disco lasted one and a quarter hours instead of the usual one hour. It included the usual "Relax" (Frankie Goes To Hollywood), "YMCA" (Village People), "Glad All Over", Can-Can, "The Locomotion" etc. Normally we get brief snippets of those, this time some of those were in full or almost in full, whereas some songs were just brief snippets. Near the end there were excerpts of several Eurovision songs, including "Flying The Flag (For You) (Scooch) and "Making Your Mind Up" (Bucks Fizz). As always the final four songs, played in full, were:

Dancing Lasha Tumbai (Ryan and co appeared on stage just in front of the curtains doing the actions)
Amarillo
Always Look On The Bright Side of Life
New York

Finally the Warner Brothers cartoon "That's all folks" marked the end of the disco.

When the disco ended, all those who had dressed up assembled in front of the curtains for the group photo. After that members were asked to pack up and leave as quickly as possible. I collected my belongings from my dressing room, along with my other items at the table where I sat much of the show. At 11:46pm I finally ready to leave the Paradise Room via the spiral stairs, and was back at my hotel a few minutes later.

Summary of Evening

Show Opener: Alan Chilvers, Paul and Emma
Welcome: Andy Hine
Act 1: Kelly Cameron - "Ooh Ahh Just A Little Bit"
Game 1: Yes/No
Act 2: The Coaster Kids - "Save Your Coasters For Me"
Act 3: Nemesis Nick, Death, Tom Hey and Brian (mophead) - "Hard Rock Hallelujah"
Game 2: Kids' Gopher
Act 4: Dave Maryan - "That's Life"

The Gong Show
1: SuperDini and Emma Roids - Escapologist (horn went)
2: Sam & Penny - Dancing and Accordion (horn went)
3: Fakir On - Snake Charmer (horn went)
4: Carl May - Rap
5: Barry & Dave - "Coaster Crazy" (horn went)
6: Death (horn went)
7: Ella & Mollie - Dance
8: Matthew Bauckham & Dave - "Euphoria" / "Flying The Flag (For You)"
9: Andy Hunter - Joe the camel (horn went)

Top four: Fakir On, Carl May, Ella & Mollie, Matthew Bauckham & Dave; joint winners Carl May and Ella & Mollie
Bottom two: Death v Andy Hunter; Ultimate worst Andy Hunter

Act 5: Wendy Evans - Eurovision Medley
Game 3: Open the Box
Act 6: Ryan and Co - "Dancing Lasha Tumbai"
Thank you message: Andy Hine

After Show Party (Disco)

Group photo

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Day Three - Sunday 7 April

First Thing

After an action packed Saturday I awoke at 7:30am, put on my RCCGB 25th anniversary T-shirt (which I bought Saturday lunchtime), packed and felt thirsty for more. I had breakfast at the official time of 9:00am. Once again, I could have had a full English breakfast, but chose beans on toast as a lighter alternative.

Initial Meet-Up

Having left my hotel just after 10:00am I walked to the Pleasure Beach as quickly as possible. A few minutes later I got to the Casino Tower. Everyone was waiting inside the tower on the ground floor this time. When it was almost time for us to enter the Park, Nev told us the ERS would be on three coasters: Big Dipper, Infusion and Wild Mouse. He said we will head straight to Infusion; Big Dipper will start shortly afterwards, followed by Wild Mouse. He warned us that, due to the mouse cars only seating two at a time, we should not all head for Wild Mouse at once as we'd waste a lot of ERS time waiting for a go.

Morning ERS

Around 10:15 the Club entered through the gates and headed in the direction of Big Dipper and Infusion for the morning ERS.

Big Dipper

As we passed Big Dipper, several members were already queuing for Big Dipper, so I joined the Big Dipper queue. Whilst queuing I talked to Mary (Regatta) Knight. Soon it was my turn. The train set off through the tunnel, up the lift hill and gave plenty of AIRtime on the dips out and back. A great start to the ERS.

I was going to have another go on Big Dipper, but the queue was now considerably longer, so instead I went to have a few goes on Infusion, and possibly return for a few more goes on Big Dipper towards the end of the ERS by which time I hoped Big Dipper would be quieter. Looking back, it's just as well I managed to get one go on Big Dipper when I did; although a disappointingly low count, one go was better than none!

Infusion

Now for a few goes on this Vekoma inverted steel coaster. Interestingly this seems to get included in the Sunday ERS most years, presumably because it used to be Traumatizer at Pleasureland Southport. Presumably having this as part of the Sunday morning ERS is Nev's subtle way of incorporating a bit of Sunday at Pleasureland Southport of yesteryear at Blackpool. Two trains were running. I was amazed how quiet this coaster was, I only left the station and looped back to the entrance after one of my goes; on all my other goes I was able to ride again without leaving the station; and sometimes managed to keep my existing seat between goes. I was only intending to have a few goes on Infusion, but when I found out from another member that Big Dipper had got stuck, I continued riding Infusion for the rest of the ERS. In so doing I clocked up nine goes in various rows as follows.

1st and 2nd goes: second-from-back row.
3rd and 4th goes: front row.
5th and 6th goes: fourth row.
7th and 8th goes: second row.
9th go: back row.

At the end of my ninth go the time was 11:33. The ERS was now over and I left the ride. Still I was really proud to have achieved nine goes straight off on Infusion during the ERS. That beat my previous personal best of seven goes straight off on Infusion during the 2009 Sunday morning Blackpool Bash ERS. It's also my new record for most goes on one coaster in an ERS (my previous best was eight on Roller Coaster during the Summer Bash 2008 ERS at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach and eight on Megafobia in the dark ERS at Oakwood last year).

Summary of my rides this ERS in order of riding:

Big Dipper 1
Infusion 9

Cumulative Summary of My Rides

Ride	Total
Big Dipper	1
Infusion	9
TOTAL	10

Who beat me on that?

Rest of Sunday

The 2013 Blackpool Bash was to all intents and purposes over when the ERS finished at 11:30. No further events (e.g. lunch, later ERS) were scheduled for Sunday. Members with Sunday wristbands stayed and continued riding. Those like me without Sunday wristbands left and went straight home (perhaps stopping at another park en route) or visited other Blackpool attractions. Initially I stayed in the Pleasure Beach talking to Nev, Alan Chilvers and a few other members outside the café near the fountains. I finally left Pleasure Beach for the last time approximately 12:30pm and collected my luggage from my hotel.

South Pier

Around 1pm I went on South Pier and had a jumbo chilli hot dog there. Whilst sitting down eating it I saw Nev and Christine walking towards the pier exit, I gave them a quick wave but we didn't get chance to talk. Having finished my hot dog I left the pier (I didn't go on any of the rides) and had a whippy ice cream from Pablo's ice cream kiosk. You've got to have an ice cream on a trip to Blackpool.

Blackpool Tower

Having finished my ice cream, I caught the next available tram from South Pier to Tower stop. Around 1:45pm I entered the Tower and looked at there is to see there. Being as I went up the Tower Eye last year I wasn't sure I really wanted to go up there again, so I considered other attractions. A circus was due to start at 2:30pm, but since it was due to finish at 4pm, and I had an Advance ticket for a train departing Blackpool North at 3:44pm, I couldn't possibly see the circus. I considered visiting the Blackpool Dungeon, one member of staff said I'd need to allow just over an hour to see it. One problem was taking my luggage into the Dungeon, I was initially told I might be able to have it put in store, but when I got to the Dungeon admission point, the person behind the desk said they weren't allowed to put visitors' luggage in store. So I gave the Dungeon a miss.

Eventually I decided to visit the Tower Eye for the second year running, taking all my luggage up there. When I bought my ticket I was given a panoramic view leaflet, with sights to look out for.

Tower Photo

Just after the Tower Eye admissions point, I stood by a green screen for a photo. I deliberately removed my outer layers of clothing to show my new RCCGB T-shirt, and left my luggage out of shot. The photographer liked my pose.

4D Film

The next stop was the small cinema for the five minute 4D film. Spectators were issued with 3D glasses and asked to stand, holding on to a rail to feel the best effect. Unlike last year, this time I was standing on the back (topmost) row. The film had some amazing features, e.g. zooming in on Blackpool and the Tower from outer space, the tower taking off like a pyrotechnic rocket (a computer graphic animation I suppose) and going down the first drop of Big One. All in all, an excellent short film. It's wonderful how they've made that film, presumably using a combination of video and computer graphics, but the Big One first drop descent was no match for the real thing. This time I noticed being squirted with water during the film, I'm not sure what the significance of that was. When the film ended spectators handed back their 3D spectacles upon leaving the cinema.

Flight Wing Photo

I then joined the back of a longish queue. Initially I thought it was the tower lift queue, but it was a queue to have another photo taken. Thankfully some were in groups of two or three, so that speeded things up a bit. When it was my turn I removed my outer layers to show just my new RCCGB T-shirt. With the green wall behind me, I had to stand on behind the red line marked on the green floor and hold my arms up. The photographer was impressed with my pose.

Top of the Tower

After that I queued to be taken in the lift to the enclosed observation deck of the Tower Eye. Having reached the top, I walked the entire length of the glass walk on the promenade / beach side; I even got someone to photograph me standing and sitting on the glass. From this level the views were breath-taking in all directions. Unfortunately, although it was sunny, it was a bit hazy. Nonetheless I took several photos in all directions. Also I tried to spot as many sights marked on the panoramic view leaflet as I could. Whereas I saw the Blackpool sights easily enough, it was impossible to see the distant ones, e.g. Anglesey, Preston, Manchester as it was so hazy. To see all the marked sights you really want a clear day. After a while I climbed the spiral stairs to another level, and looked out in all directions. On that level I saw another staircase which visitors could climb up, so I went up to the top of that staircase. I was now on the highest level open to the public, someone took my photo showing my RCCGB 25th anniversary T-shirt. There was one more spiral staircase leading upwards from this level, but its gate was locked. That must lead to another level not open to the public, but I'm not sure what. Finally I went down the descent staircase, followed by the spiral staircase to the enclosed observation deck level.

Once there, time was going on, and there was a queue for the lift. I was unable to get on the first lift, so I had to wait a few minutes longer for the lift to return to the top again, whilst getting concerned about returning to Blackpool North in time for the 15:44 train to Manchester Piccadilly! Thankfully at 15:14 the lift car was back and I was able to get in to begin my descent. Three minutes later I was back on level 6 of the building. Passing through the gift shop I looked at my two photos. Although I liked both of them, I resisted the temptation to buy either as they were £8 each or £14 for both, which I felt would be a waste of money. Without further ado I descended the stairs to level 1.

Journey Home

Having left the Tower through the back exit at 3:20pm I hurriedly walked straight back to Blackpool North. I was unsure of the quickest way, but I asked the way a couple of times, and also saw some signs along the way. Eventually I saw Wilkinson, and from this point onwards knew the rest of the way. I finally reached the station concourse at 3:32pm. I now had 12 minutes to get on the 15:44 train to Manchester Piccadilly. My Advance ticket for the aforementioned train was for Blackpool North to Bristol Temple Meads, therefore I had to buy an extra ticket for Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa to complete my journey. Thankfully the Northern Rail staff at Blackpool North ticket office were able to sell me the ticket for that out-of-area journey. Without further ado I went through the ticket barrier and just had time to buy a takeaway coffee.

The 15:44 Manchester Airport train left Blackpool North on time, but got to Manchester Piccadilly late; it arrived platform 14 at 17:05. That meant I had just two minutes to transfer to the 17:07 Plymouth train, which was due to depart from the main part of the station. Fortunately I gathered all my stuff together and stood by the door as the train neared Piccadilly. Having stepped on to platform 14, I ran like mad up the stairs, over one bridge and took a right turn. In a state of panic I asked which platform it was for the 17:07 Plymouth train, and continued running until and down the staircase to platform 7. The train was still there, I got on the first passenger door I could find and asked the train manager if this was the 17:07 to Bristol Temple Meads. It was, thank goodness for that! I then found my seat, settled down and enjoyed a relaxing journey to Bristol Temple Meads, with no further problems. Having reached Bristol Temple Meads at 20:13 I had plenty of time to transfer to the 20:30 train to Bath Spa. I finally reached Bath at 20:42, and after that went to McDonalds Southgate Bath for a Big Mac and fries, followed by a toffee sundae. I finally reached home around 9:45pm.

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Outro

Highlights

Meeting members I'd met on previous Club trips again (including Andy and Christine Hine, Alan Chilvers, Barry, Brian, Death, Mark Blundell, Matt Walker, Mary and Andy Knight, Planenut, Ryan Hackett, Wendy Evans and the Eddy family).
Meeting Peter O'Brien, Lauren and Aidan (Saturday evening) and Adey, Kellie and Katelyn (Sunday just before ERS) whom I don't recall seeing on previous RCCGB trips.
ERSs on Revolution, Steeplechase, Big One, Grand National, Big Dipper and Infusion.
Quite a high ride count Saturday (during ERSs and normal time).
Riding all five wooden coasters (including both lift hills of Grand National) Saturday for the first time ever.
Two nights of entertainment, plus dancing in the disco Saturday evening.
Performing "Hard Rock Hallelujah" (Lordi) with Brian, Tom and Death Saturday evening (my first ever billed act).
Getting 9 goes on Infusion during the Sunday morning ERS, thereby beating my previous personal records for most goes straight off on that particular coaster, and most goes on any coaster in one ERS.
The Blackpool Tower Eye: 4D film and visiting the top of the Tower.

Lowlights

Problems with Big One Saturday which meant I only got one go on it all day (near the end of our ERS).
Big Dipper getting stuck part way through our Sunday morning ERS, fortunately I had one go on it right at the start of the ERS before it got stuck.
Stressful rush from platform 14 to platform 7 at Manchester Piccadilly Sunday late afternoon to transfer to the 17:07 Plymouth train in just two minutes.

Summing Up

Another mega excellent weekend away, my sixth Blackpool Bash to-date. It was great riding the Big One (albeit once only), Grand National, Infusion and other rides again, and catching up with other members (both those I've met before, and ones I don't previously recall seeing). Thanks a million to Andy Hine for all the effort involved in organising a trip of this nature. At the Blackpool Bash, the ERSs and other riding are only part of the fun. The other major chunk of the fun includes the Friday evening entertainment, Saturday lunch and Saturday evening Coaster Crazy Show and disco. Better still I performed a billed act for the first time ever on Saturday evening, an achievement I feel proud of. The upshot of that was it seemed strange just watching the Gong Show for the first time since 2008, having been in it the interim four years. Never mind, I hope to be back in the Gong Show next year with something some might see as a cack act. No wonder Nev says in the Blackpool Bash invite "If you can only make one Club trip this year, make it this one".

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