Rolling Thunder has always had a slight pause at the top before going down the first drop. I've been riding it since it opened in 1979, when they actually had both sides racing all the time. I just think it appears so much slower to us now, having the super-fast Toro right next to it. But I still love Rolling Thunder - I hope they open the other side soon - it's a little wilder than the right side.
I remember when I went to the park and they had a smaller woodie called Baby Thunder, which was still a lot of fun! A perfect family coaster for kids and adults alike.
Anyway, the park continues to grow and evolve!