Celebrating Coaster History in California at Preservation Conference 2025

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