Ireland’s two newest roller coasters have opened to the public today at Emerald Park.
The theme park in Ashbourne, County Meath, began the development seven years ago and is thrilled it is finally complete.
The two roller coasters, 'Na Fianna Force' and 'The Quest', are interlocking and together form one giant ride.
Speaking to Henry McKean for The Pat Kenny Show, Managing Director Charles Coyle said the park had spent a lot of time and money building them.
“We’ve two new roller coasters opening and we’ve one ride,” he said.
“It’s the culmination of years of work and planning.
“We started planning this back in 2017 - so seven years - and to finally be able to open them is a very proud moment.
“It’s the biggest day in the park’s history. It’s an investment of €22 million - so, one hell of a gamble.”
Charles Coyle thanks his dad the late Ray Coyle for his legacy and dream. @emeraldparkirl @NewstalkFM @PatKennyNT pic.twitter.com/0auk8QqsDg
— Henry McKean (@HenryMcKean) May 21, 2024
Emerald Park's new roller coasters
The two new roller coasters are designed by a Dutch company which Mr Coyle described as “one of the leading manufacturers in the world” which has previously worked with Walt Disney.
News of the new ride has spread and some 60 roller coaster enthusiasts from all over Europe turned up to have a go.
“Some are from the European Coaster Club, I know there is one gentleman who has flown in from Sweden last night in order to be able to make it here on time,” Mr Coyle said.
“So, when we opened the Cú Chulainn Coaster we had maybe 15 of these guys and we thought that was amazing.
“So, to be able to have over 60 is a testament to buzz and excitement of how good these rides are.”
Out and about in nearby Ratoath, Newstalk found a huge amount of respect and admiration for the park.
“Emerald Park is just such a fantastic park to have around this area,” local shop owner Paul Sweeny said.
“Who’d have ever thought that we’d have one of the best theme parks in Europe right here in Ratoath!”
Another woman said her family had been visiting it for years.
“Kids love it,” she said.
“It’s something for them to do and they love all the rides and stuff.
“It’s a real family park, so they love going there.
“My girls are 15 now and they’ve been going there since they were babies and they still love it.”
Main image: Henry McKean at Emerald Park. Image: Newstalk
