SANDUSKY, Ohio, Sept. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For the 14th consecutive year, Cedar Point amusement park/resort in Sandusky, Ohio, was named as the "Best Amusement Park in the World" in the prestigious Golden Ticket Awards presented annually by Amusement Today newspaper.
Cedar Point also received another very special award as Dick Kinzel, CEO of Cedar Fair Entertainment Company that owns and operates Cedar Point and 10 other amusement parks, was selected to become a member of the Legends Series as the 2011 Publisher's Pick that recognizes the top examples of dedication, leadership and achievement in the amusement industry.
The Golden Ticket Awards are given to the highest-rated parks in approximately two dozen categories as determined by a panel of experienced amusement park fans from around the world. Headquartered in Arlington, Texas, Amusement Today is an international publication that covers amusement and waterpark news and trends.
"Dick Kinzel has been instrumental in the growth and success of the Cedar Fair family of parks," said Gary Slade, publisher and editor-in-chief of Amusement Today. "His vision for family entertainment has made him a legend in the industry."
In addition to winning the highly coveted award for the world's best amusement park, Cedar Point's Millennium Force roller coaster was also named as the "Best Steel Roller Coaster" for the second consecutive year and the sixth time since its introduction in 2000.
"This is a very special day for us," said John Hildebrandt, vice president and general manager of Cedar Point. "Not only is our park and our roller coaster named as the best in the world, but Dick Kinzel, who has been a mentor and trusted friend to many of us in the industry, has been recognized for his many achievements
Millennium Force had lots of company in the "Best Steel Roller Coaster" category, with two other Cedar Point coasters rated in the Top Ten and another pair ranked in the Top 25.
Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the country. With 75 rides, including 17 roller coasters, the park has more rides than any park in the world. Built in 1870, Cedar Point is the second oldest amusement park in North America.
SOURCE Cedar Point amusement park/resort
