Kings Island auctioning Diamondback first ride

Kings Island released details this week of plans to auction off the first ride on the Diamondback roller coaster opening this year. Monday marked the first day of the auction wherein park-goers who want to be the first on this highly vaunted roller coaster will get the chance to bid on one of a "minimum" of 96 seats.

The highest 96 bidders will receive not only the opportunity to be the first to ride what is being billed the "tallest, fastest and meanest roller coaster to ever strike Kings Island," but will also be presented a commemorative ticket, a gift from the park and an admission ticket. Following the ride's maiden trip, each ticket-holder is invited to stay in the park until closing at 10:00 p.m.

According to the Kings Island press release, all of the proceeds from the auction will be given to A Kid Again. Founded in 1995, A Kid Again is a non-profit organization that has dedicated itself to providing fun outings for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Winning bidders will board the inaugural ride on the coaster's opening this April 18th. All bids must be received by April 15, 2009. Anyone interested can cast their bid at www.kidiamondback.com/public/auction or call Kings Island at (800) 288-0808.

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