Just got back from Busch Gardens. Got dragged on to Sheikra 5 times by my daughter! (or was it that I dragged her on it 5 times?) I have been on many roller coasters in my time and there isn't much to compete against the few seconds you are dangling on the edge of the 200ft drop then the feeling as it suddenly lets go.

The sheer size of the ride is breath taking. It can be seen towering in to the sky from the entire park and is almost intimidating in its presence. As we worked our way around the park getting closer to it I could not help but feel the apprehension rise as the height of the main drop became more apparent.

We were lucky that the park was very quiet. There were no queues at all. each time we went on we were pretty much straight on even to the front. When the park is busy I can imagine the wait will be a long one, the queue lanes seemed to go on for ever. There are 4 rows of eight seats in each car. The seats are teared so each row is slightly higher than the first giving good views where ever you sit. The climb to the first and main drop is long and steep (you are pretty much on your back during the accent), look out for the rescue lift which runs along the main track. One think I noticed was how smooth everything is. When you get to the top you have stunning views of the whole Tampa area along with the smoothness this part of the ride is almost relaxing. Another thing to look out for are the red aircraft warning lights at the top. Then you come to the main drop, the car slows and then slowly creeps up the edge and then gently rolls, the track seems to just disappear. On the front row you are almost horizontal looking down at certain doom and at the crowds of people looking up in awe of your bravery. It just hangs there giving you just enough time to think there is something wrong with the ride. Then it happens, with no warning it lets go. I wont even try to describe what it feels like but I bet no one can do it with out screaming.

If you are going on the ride and get a chance go to the front seats. However there is no seperate queue for the front row, when the ride is busy you will be directed to the first available seats. You do get a good view where ever you sit but the front is by far the best place to be. If you are on the back row be prepared to get wet.

The next stage of ride photos has also arrived. 'Flight DVD's' these cost £20.33 inc tax. It's about 4 minutes long. It is a short presentation which starts with the story of Sheirka and the a prerecorded video from on the ride which is edited with footage from your own ride. We got one and I have to say all though it was a bit pricey it is an excellent souvenir from the day.