By Paul Adler, KY3 News
Story Published: Apr 29, 2010 at 7:42 AM CDT
See the video here: http://www.ky3.com/news/local/92405309.html
WALNUT SHADE, Mo. -- A new attraction opens this weekend just north of Branson. It takes you zipping above the tree lines. For some, that sounds like a blast. For KY3 News anchor Maria Neider, it's just downright scary. Here's her experience on the zipline ride.
"Go ahead and step into the harness," guide Robert Cameron instructed.
When you suffer from acrophobia, strapping in for this ride will cause the sweat to break out. Neider has it -- bad.
"Are you nervous?" she was asked.
"Paul, of course, I'm nervous. That's crazy," she replied.
Neider has a severe anxiety about heights.
"Are you going to laugh at Maria?" a reprter asked General Manager Emma Hamilton.
"No, I won't laugh. I've been there too. I totally understand," said Hamilton.
"This is the tether; this connects to the actual zipline and the trolley," said Cameron.
Neider and I planned to test out the new ziplines. Ziplines are wires that you ride. They're some 50, 60, 70 feet in the air, above the trees.
"The helmet is for if something were to fall from above. It's not necessarily because we think you're going to fall," said Hamilton.
"I need that reassurance. That's a good thing," said Neider.
Before we went up, we signed waivers, got some instructions and climbed to the first tower. Neider's knuckles turned white as she got ready.
"We're going to connect you right up here, so move forward," said Hamilton.
"It's my lifeline," said Neider.
As we move closer, Neider looked like she was walking the plank on a pirate ship.
"You'll love it!" said Hamilton.
At the word "Go," I was off and flying. Neider was left standing on the platform with the clock ticking.
"Are you ready?" Hamilton asked.
"Yeah, I'm as ready as I'm going to get, if I can release my white knuckle grip," said Neider.
She finally jumped.
"Oh my god! Whoooooooo! Oh my god!" she said.
"It was totally frightening, letting go. I don't know how you can let go so fast. Oh, it was fun."
"So, you were able to face your fears today?" she was asked.
"I did it. Yes, I did. I do have a fear of heights still, but it was fun. I felt totally secure," said Neider.
The tours range in cost from $40 to $100. It opens Saturday, although the first couple of weeks are sold out, so call ahead or check the Branson Zipline Canopy Tours Web site before you go.
http://www.bransonzipline.com/
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