PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WDEF) – A Dollywood classic is back and better than ever. Blazing Fury has officially reopened after a major refresh and the park honored some real-life heroes to kick things off. News 12’s Robert Hanley has the details.
Eugene Naughton, The President of Dollywood, told the media that “a lot of people, when I walked in the midway, talk about it as their first ride ever at the park, first big coaster experience, and for me and our team here, we were really passionate about wanting to protect the iconic tradition of blazing fury, and make sure that it lived on in it form today 50 years from today.”
The popular fire-themed dark ride officially returned to operation on the Fourth of July, complete with updated scenes, newly costumed characters, and enhanced sound design.
Naughton went on to say that he’s “sort of history buff and felt passionate about keeping blazing fury for what it is. You know our rides different than Silver Dollar City’s fire in the hole so we didn’t really feel like we had to totally flip it out to accomplish the objectives that we wanted to accomplish.”
To celebrate the reopening, local firefighters were invited to take part in the ribbon cutting as well as the ceremonial first ride, a meaningful gesture, since their profession inspired the ride’s original storyline.
As the ride is tailored around firefighters, Tony Watson, Pigeon Forge Fire Chief, spoke to News 12 at the opening as well.
Here is what he had to say:
“Our work, we dodge, but never close 24 hours a day 365 so to be able to get them over here to have a little time with their family, that is so important. We believe about God, Family, department and those lines blur sometimes when you have lots of events going on like this, but this is exciting. When I seen the look on their faces and I see the look on their kids right there, it made me really happy.”
First opened in 1978, Blazing Fury has remained a fan favorite at the park for decades. We heard why this means so much to the local fire department.
Naughton commented about the firefighters being the inspiration and stated that “Moms and dad’s give up a lot of time serving, you know, serving our city and they miss out on family time so this is a small thank you in a way to let them experience blazing fury for the first time.”
With its new look and classic charm, Blazing Fury is ready to thrill a whole new generation of Dollywood guests.
