Universal says goodbye to 'Kong'

September 8, 2002, Universal Studios Florida said farewell to one of it's former staple attractions, as the King Kong thrill ride "Kongfrontation' closed it's doors after a sendoff and special event that allowed Annual Pass holders to take the final rides on Kong.

It was announced a little over a month ago that 'Kongfrontation' would be closing to make room for a new interactive thrill ride based on one or more of the recent 'Mummy' series of films.  Annual Pass holders were notified that they would have the opportunities to take the final rides, as well as receiving a commemorative gift.  Hundreds of pass holders turned out as the park closed to the general public at 6:00 pm and stood in line for their reservation tickets for their final ride on Kong, many of which, went well into the evening. 

A press event was held at 5:45 Pm where Universal Employees handed out hundreds of Bananas to attendees, many of which had ridden Kong back at the parks opening more than 10 years ago,  and said a formal goodbye to Kong, as they got the park fans to raise the fruit high above their head and let out a roar in salute to the big guy.  Kong sounded back a definitive roar over the PA system, and with that, the last rides began.

"It will be a sad to see the big guy go.", said Eric Brooks, an annual Pass holder, "I remember riding it for the first time, and I am glad to have had the opportunity to ride it one last time today."

It was a bittersweet event, but Universal employees promised that Kong would always remain in the park, either in storage, or possibly through a park display of some sort. 

Universal also plans to close 2 other attractions by the end of this year.  The Hanna-Barbera ride, and the Alfred Hitchcock experience will be closed to make way for a Jimmy Neutron ride and a Shrek attraction of some sort.

Kongfrontation: The Ride	Fans line up for their Final Ride	A look at the New York City Subway interiors of the inside	Subway Poster frames
Subway Graffiti	Approaching the front	Ride Employees send another Tram out	The passengers arrive safely
Goodbye to Kong	A Kong-worthy salute	Final Ride Tickets	Commemorative Keychain given to Pass holders
	Park flyer with the details of the day