Dorset Couple Honored for Innovative Theme Park Ride Concept

A couple has expressed their continued “disbelief” after securing a victory in a competition for their design of a “unique” theme park ride. Richard and Amy Hale, who reside near Weymouth, Dorset, revealed that they nearly withdrew their submission from the challenge organized by the firm Storyland Studios after reviewing other entries. Nevertheless, their concept, named Portal Riders, which features a dark water ride navigating through fantasy realms, triumphed over competitors from more than 30 nations, securing a £20,000 award. Mr. Hale stated that their decision to participate in the competition came after his recovery from treatment for bowel cancer. His wife commented, “We just thought ‘We’ve got nothing to lose, let’s just go for it’.” Mr. Hale indicated his resolve to “come out fighting.” He elaborated, “We tackle every day as it comes and we don’t shy away form any challenges.” The couple learned of their victory several weeks after being informed they had advanced to the top 10 finalists. Mrs. Hale recounted, “It was one of those most surreal moments, where we were both screaming and doing a happy dance around the bedroom.” She added, “When we looked at the quality of the other submissions, I honestly didn’t think we stood a chance, I tried to withdraw it.” However, Portal Riders ultimately secured the win, leading to their trip to Florida to accept the prize. Mr. Hale characterized the design as “an indoor dark boat ride,” which utilizes cutting-edge filming technology in its development. He explained, “For most boat rides in Disney or Universal, you get a small boat and you travel around to the world you’re seeing.” He continued, “This is quite different – the boat stays still and the world comes to you.” According to one of the founders of Storyland, their design “stood out straightaway.” Mrs. Hale, referencing the feedback received, stated, “It was so unique, there was nothing else like it.” Her husband mentioned his lifelong creativity, citing his involvement in constructing Christmas grottos, conceptualizing Sea Life Centres, and creating murals. Currently, he designs exhibits for the Tank Museum in Bovington via his company, Inspiring Heritage. He remarked, “I’ve had some amazing projects but nothing to this level.” For updates, BBC Dorset can be followed on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.