IAAPA Announces 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees
IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has announced the latest four inductees into the IAAPA Hall of Fame.
The IAAPA Hall of Fame was established in 1990 to honour the legends and pioneers who have significantly contributed to the growth and development of the global attractions industry. Over the past 30 years, numerous industry trailblazers from around the world have been inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame.
“Influence & Imagination”
The inductees for 2024 are:
- Dick Chance. After graduating from college in 1970, Chance joined Chance Rides, a company founded by his father, Harold Chance, in 1961. He became CEO after acquiring the firm in 1985, steering the company through significant growth, including the introduction of beautifully designed carousels.
A committed leader in the industry, Chance served as president of AREA (now AIMS International) and led the Showmen’s League of America in 2000. His achievements have made a lasting impact on the amusement sector.
- Geoff Chutter. As the founder and CEO of WhiteWater, Chutter has revolutionised the water park industry with his vision and determination. In 1980, he opened a water park in British Columbia, Canada, personally constructing the slides.
Under his leadership, WhiteWater has evolved into a global hub for water park needs, boasting seven regional offices and 500 employees. Through strategic acquisitions, innovation, and a commitment to safety, WhiteWater has delivered exceptional aquatic experiences, including over 5,000 projects for top entertainment brands worldwide.
- Rick Hunter. With four decades of experience, Hunter continues to drive innovation, share expertise, and uphold a tradition of excellence. Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of the industry, pushing boundaries and setting new standards, from the early development of the groundbreaking Mammoth River to his latest creation, the RocketBLAST.
Hunter’s global influence on water parks and rides includes countless unique designs and innovative solutions that enhance visitor experiences while implementing sustainable practices that significantly reduce the environmental impact of water slides.
- Clark Robinson. A former president and CEO of IAAPA, Robinson played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s future. He dedicated over 27 years to IAAPA in various voluntary leadership positions before becoming president and CEO in 2002. His roles included vice president and treasurer, as well as serving as the first, second, and third chairs of the board of directors.
His leadership was vital in key developments such as IAAPA’s relocation from Chicago to Washington DC, enhancing governance and committee structures, and expanding international membership. Robinson’s remarkable contributions to IAAPA and its members, along with his work at Lagoon Park, make him a well-deserved inductee into the IAAPA Hall of Fame.
John McReynolds, chairman of the IAAPA Hall of Fame Committee, expressed: “We could not be more thrilled with this year’s Hall of Fame inductees. These four individuals truly represent more than 100 years of influence and imagination that has resonated throughout our industry.”
The official ceremony will take place at LEGENDS: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair on Monday, 18 November at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, as part of IAAPA Expo 2024. The event will feature a live auction, with all proceeds supporting the IAAPA Foundation.
Recently, IAAPA announced that IAAPA Expo Europe, held from 23 to 27 September in Amsterdam, welcomed the largest number of registered attendees in the region’s history.
