Popular Carowinds roller-coaster gets a new name
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A popular Carowinds’ rollercoaster is getting a new name. Previously known as the “Intimidator” and named after NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, the 232-foot ride will now be called “Thunder Striker,” the amusement park announced on Wednesday.
The name change comes almost 14 years after the coaster was first built and named. According to Carowinds, it’s the tallest, fastest and longest hypercoaster in the southeast.
NEWS: #Carowinds races into a thrilling new era with its iconic hyper coaster.
⚡ Introducing… Thunder Striker! pic.twitter.com/QBDFCS0Iuo— Carowinds (@Carowinds) February 28, 2024
The nearly four-minute ride has 17 drops and reaches speeds up to 80 miles per hour. Guests must be at least 54 inches (4’6″) to ride.
The name change has seen mixed reactions from fans on social media due to the history of the “Intimidator” and how loved Dale Earnhardt is by NASCAR fans.
Carowinds opens for the first time in 2024 on Friday, March 9. Excluding the first week in April, the park will only be open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until the last week of May when it is open full-time for the summer.
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