British Columbia·Video

'The Beast' is Playland's newest extreme ride - take an inside spin with us

Do you have what it takes to get strapped in to a giant, spinning pendulum that throws you 38 metres up in the air? Watch what happened when our reporter tried it out...

Giant pendulum aims to give Playland riders a thrill by swinging, spinning at extreme speeds

RAW: Extreme new ride at Playland

10 years ago
Duration 1:37
Watch CBC Radio's Margaret Gallagher give 'The Beast' a spin

Playland has a brand new ride, "The Beast", ready to give riders a thrill by swinging and spinning them at extreme speeds. Here are six things to know before you strap in and take off.

1. It has the same G-force as a fighter plane

While strapped to the end of a swinging arm that reaches a maximum height of 38 metres, you'll travel more than 90 km/hr and experience more than 5Gs of force.

2. "The Beast" is Dutch

It was built by Holland's KMG International, who currently have more than 150 rides in operation around the world.

It's the first ride of its kind in North America and the largest pendulum ride in Canada, according to PNE spokesperson Laura Ballance.

3. Don't expect to take a picture with your phone

The extreme speeds mean that you won't be able to hold on to anything safely. Reporters who did the test ride were only allowed to use GoPro cameras with secure harnesses.

And if your shoes aren't tied or strapped on, consider leaving them on the ground.

CBC Reporter Margaret Gallagher (second from right) looks queasy as she awaits her first ride on "The Beast." (Cory Correia/CBC)

4. You may want to wait to eat lunch

Besides swinging you 38 metres in the air, "The Beast" simultaneously spins you 360 degrees for maximum stomach churning.

5. You'll have company while you're screaming

"The Beast" accommodates up to 20 riders, seated in four rows of five. Two rows face inwards, while two face outwards, offering different views (if you dare open your eyes.)

6. It's included with the cost of admission

It won't cost you extra to ride "The Beast"; it's part of the Playland admission and will be included in the PNE ride pass when the fair opens in August.