Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s slingshot ride fails, two left dangling mid-air before being rescued

The slingshot ride failed, as the cords went loose putting two people's lives at peril, leaving them hanging in the air at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

The video was shared on social media by some unknown spectators showcasing how the slingshot ride went kaput abruptly while the launch took place. In the video shown, one cord got detached as the slingshot ride went wobbly in between, creating a panic-stricken situation for the two riders stuck inside the pod. The fragile ends tossed the pod to the other side, hitting one of the metal girders instilled for support purposes.




The spokesperson of the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, said: ‘We can confirm that a technical issue involving the reverse bungee occurred on Wednesday evening.

‘Both riders were safely escorted off the ride, checked by our on-site medics and were not injured.

‘Safety is our highest priority and the ride is closed while further investigation takes place. All of our rides undergo rigorous and regular safety checks by experienced members of staff trained in health and safety.

‘We also provide regular training for all staff to ensure our visitors can enjoy a fun and safe experience.



‘All other attractions at Winter Wonderland are operating as normal.’

A report was filed regarding the same event at the Metropolitan Police department, stating that ‘two teenage boys had been in a fairground ride when one of the bungee cords attached to the cage had snapped’ and ‘the cage was left suspended in the air’.

They also added that the two victims of the slingshot ride left Hyde Park before the firefighters and officers reached the incident spot.

The Slingshot ride was set up at Hyde Park as the main event to attract more visitors, and also as a part of the Christmas enticement. This ride is initiated in a round pod where two seats are arranged for the riders to sit and enjoy the swing. It launches in the mid-air and sways up and down as long as it comes to its resting position.

FAQs:

1. How much distance does a slingshot ride travel in mid-air when launched?
   360 feet or 110 m
2. How many people can join for a slingshot ride?
   2 people