10. October 2023
City marketing
Short-term replacement: "Caterpillar track" comes for "Booster" and "Balloon ride" for "Montgolfiere
Bocholt. That was sporting: four days before the fair began, two showmen cancelled their participation and replacements were found literally overnight. The large ride "Booster" by Thomas Clare and the children's ride "Montgolfiere" will unfortunately not be set up. Markus Kock from Stadtmarketing Bocholt, who is responsible for the project, nevertheless managed to hire two alternative rides at short notice. The "Booster", which has an engine failure, will be replaced by Peter Buchholz's "Original Caterpillar Ride" on the market square in front of the historic town hall, and instead of the "Montgolfiere", which has a technical defect, the "Balloon Ride" will be set up on the old fire station grounds. This ride is still operated by the Götzke company.
"Caterpillar track and balloon ride are well-known rides
The caterpillar track is legendary for many funfair fans and has been at the Bocholt funfair for many years. It also enjoyed great popularity last year for the town's anniversary. In 2023 it continues to inspire, Markus Kock and managing director Ludger Dieckhues agree, so both rides will attract visitors. "The Caterpillar is historic," says Ludger Dieckhues and Markus Kock adds that "the 'Balloon Ride' is an identical ride to the 'Montgolfiere' and is therefore a good alternative for the young audience."
Grateful for spontaneous commitments
Such a last-minute cancellation of a large ride - but also of a children's ride - is always a challenge for those responsible. It was only through Markus Kock's good contacts that it was possible to find a replacement overnight at such an important and exclusive location as in front of the Historic Town Hall. "We are delighted about Peter Buchholz's spontaneous acceptance, especially as many funfair fans would like to see the 'original caterpillar track' as a regular attraction at the Bocholt funfair," says Markus Kock about his successful efforts.
Vouchers in the strolling passes remain valid
Another piece of good news is that all the vouchers already issued in the Bummelpasses are valid for the replacement rides. So for the "Booster" voucher you can ride the "Caterpillar Ride" and for "Montgolfiere" the "Balloon Ride". So nothing stands in the way of an unadulterated stroll through the Bocholt funfair.
Further information: