YouTube Pick – Arrow Development Steeplechase Marketing

Before computers were common place, engineers used models and prototypes to evolve their ideas into rides and attractions ready for installation in amusement parks. Arrow Development were never shy about showing off some of their successes (and in some cases, their failures) at their test facilities in California and Utah.

In this clip from American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE), we see the original single track Steeplechase prototype testing with riders. This was before the construction of the Knott’s Berry Farm ride in 1976 and the Pleasure Beach Steeplechase in 1977.

Note that the design of the horses themselves is different to those that operate on the Pleasure Beach ride today (specifically the tail), this design was delivered to the Pleasure Beach in 1977, but was later swapped out. However, some of this design remain on display around the perimeter of the Derby Racer.