The Class of 2016 gathered at 4:15 a.m. in front of Gables’ gates on Jan. 15 to have an action-packed day filled with the roller coasters of Busch Gardens. One hundred juniors climbed onto the two buses and were off to enjoy their day away from school.

“My favorite part of the trip was getting on the rides with classmates and getting to know them better. For my first time at Busch Gardens, it was awesome; I really enjoyed the people who went with me and I think everyone had fun,” junior Shakur Cooper said.

Stopping along the way for breakfast, the juniors were finally inside the amusement park by 12:00 p.m. Riding roller coasters like Shiekra, Cheetah Hunt and Gwazi, the juniors were able to test their limits by experiencing these fast-paced attractions.

“It [the junior class trip] was different from other field trips because on this one you actually get to enjoy getting on rides and being with friends,” junior Christian Delgado said.

The newest addition to Busch Gardens, Falcon’s Fury, was largely anticipated by the group of juniors, considering that this huge drop tower turns you toward the ground as you are being lowered to your “death.” This ride, along with others like Sand Serpent and Scorpion, gained lots of enthusiasm from Gables’ juniors. Busch Gardens tailored to even simpler needs, too; carnival games and attractions like “Bumper Cars” were also featured, creating a fun and free atmosphere.

“This was my third time going to Busch Gardens but I was never brave enough to go on Falcon’s Fury. I was eventually convinced by my best friend through a pact, I would go on Falcon’s Fury if she went on Sheikra and so we both did our part. My experience was exactly how I expected it to be, it is as scary as it seems,” junior Eliani Venereo said.

Finishing off the fun at 6:15 p.m. the Class of 2016 boarded the buses and drove a long six hour drive home. After a fun-filled day characterized by food and thrilling rides, the juniors drudged to bed, having spent the final day of the second quarter away from school.