But the famous trophy went on its very own rollercoaster ride as it was strapped in to a front row seat on The Smiler – Alton Towers’ sensational 50mph big dipper.
Arsenal fan Max Benjamin, Reading supporter Richard Putterford, Liverpool season ticket holder Kelly Smith and Aston Villa stalwart John McLaughlin were selected from thousands of competition entrants to join the ride, giving them the chance to experience their own FA Cup Adventure.
The FA Cup
Semi-finals
18 and 19 April, 2014
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
Winners receive £900,000
No stranger to the ups and downs of the tournament, this season the FA Cup trophy has journeyed to the icebergs of the South Pole, swum with sharks and flown in a helicopter. Now ahead of the semi-finals, the cup was thrust onto the ultimate 165-second adventure at the theme park.
Lucy Roberts-Hartley, marketing manager for The FA Cup said: "Having already taken The FA Cup on some unique adventures this season this one had to be something special. Fans often call The FA Cup a rollercoaster of a competition, so where best to take the trophy than Alton Towers.”
Gunners fan Benjamin said: “Arsenal’s adventure to Wembley last year was special, but this year has definitely trumped it. Alton Towers has been magical - but I’m still hoping our passage to the FA Cup Final is less terrifying than The Smiler!”
Reds supporter Smith added: “I’m still in shock that I actually just rode The Smiler with The FA Cup sat next to me. We’ve always talked about The FA Cup being a rollercoaster and today that came true. Incredible. What an adventure.”
FA Cup Rollercoaster
Fans are being encouraged to capture their own FA Cup adventure throughout the remainder of the competition via Twitter and Facebook using the hashtag #FACupAdventure, for inclusion in an FA Cup 2014/15 Adventure Book. It will include imagery captured by multi-award winning adventure photographer, Martin Hartley.
Additionally, fans who provide content will be in with a chance to win prizes throughout the competition, including going on their own adventure at The FA Cup Final on 30 May. Entries for this competition can be made via The FA Cup Facebook page.
