Cedar Point train engine returns to honor employee

Editor's note: Justin Dietz is a Register correspondent representing Fun Food Blog at cpfoodblog.com and @funfoodblog on X. SANDUSKY — Returning for the 2026 season, Cedar Point has brought back from refurbishment the iconic G.A. Boeckling train engine, however, you may not recognize her from old. Originally shipped out in June 2024, the G.A. Boeckling engine was sent to FMW Solutions in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where it was completely disassembled, inspected and rebuilt. Upon her arrival back to the C.P. & L.E. Railroad, she received a fresh coat of paint and was first presented during the 2026 Winter Chill Out where she was concealed behind wrapping paper. We could instantly recognize her silhouette ahead of the season opening. Some of the work completed on the engine includes new tires, running gear replacement and brass work as well as a new air pump. Some lucky guests were fortunate to see her on display during the opening weekend of Cedar Point this past week. Her cab is now painted green with red trim and the engine has been renamed Randol D. In tribute So who is this person as it relates to Cedar Point's history? Randol Catri, of Huron, was a superintendent at the railroad, and he passed away in the fall of 2025. The 1967 Huron High School graduate served 47 years working on the railroad and was an iconic role model and mentor to countless Cedar Point employees throughout his tenure. "His work ethic, steady presence, and kindness touched countless co-workers and guests over the years," according to his obituary. The Randol D. is named in honor of him and his wife, Dee. The cab will also feature a photo of Randol in honor of his legacy and inspiration to others. The C.P. & L.E. Railroad is such an iconic full steam engine fleet that is truly a gem in the amusement park world. While some parks do run a train, very few feature antique steam engines. To hear the whistles and feel the power of the engine can be just as memorable as the forces experienced on your favorite roller coasters. Be sure to stop out at the park this year and take a ride through Boneville. Whether it is the Judy K., Myron H., George R. or now Randol D. engine pulling you along, it is sure to be a highlight of your day at Cedar Point. History lesson The G.A. Boeckling engine was originally built in 1927 and used in Kansas for coal mining. In 1977, the engine was purchased and restored for use at Marriott's Great America amusement park in Gurnee, Illinois. But the train sat unused until 1991 when it was again sold and restored for use at a new planned California attraction. Eventually, the little engine that could was sold to the Disney company in exchange for five of the original Disneyland coaches. Disney made several attempts to make the locomotive work at both Disneyland and Disney World as the Ward Kimball engine but, ultimately, decided it proved too small. Cedar Point acquired the engine in 1999 from Walt Disney World in exchange for the original "Maud L." train. The engine received its official designation as the G.A. Boeckling in 2013 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the C.P. & L.E. Railroad. She was successfully operated under the name until June 2024 when she was shipped off for refurbishment.