The Shadow
This feature is presented in a Q&A format to allow readers to hear directly from the business owner.
Richard Mansell of Mountain Rush Brings Family Entertainment to Downtown Covington
When Richard Mansell opened Mountain Rush in downtown Covington, it marked the fulfillment of a vision more than a decade in the making. Built
on faith, perseverance, and a desire to serve families, Mountain Rush has quickly become a destination for fun, connection, and community. While
some long-term plans, like a roller-skating rink, are still ahead, the dream continues to grow in exciting ways.
Can you share how your business idea came about and what inspired you to bring it to downtown Covington?
When our family moved to Covington fourteen years ago, we quickly realized there were limited indoor entertainment options for families and
youth. The area offered wonderful outdoor amenities, parks, trails, bowling, and the movie theater, but for activities like skating, laser tag, or go-karts,
we had to travel outside the region.
As a father and assistant pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, I often took my daughters and youth group out of town for those experiences. Within our
first year here, I began envisioning a place where families and young people could gather locally, a place I initially called “The Other Side.”
At the time, I didn’t have funding or business experience, and life responsibilities delayed the dream. However, going through the Gauntlet
business program in 2019 for my electronics company was a turning point.
It provided structure, financial insight, and exposure to the realities of brick-and-mortar operations. I gained a deeper understanding of what it truly
takes to open a physical location.
As conversations in the community continued, especially around the need for a skating rink, I began actively searching for space. While the former
Kroger building initially seemed promising, it ultimately wasn’t feasible.
Through prior connections, I began discussions with Gray Lane and David Bostic regarding their project at 410 W. Main Street.
Our visions aligned: they wanted to create something meaningful for the community, and I had a clear entertainment concept ready to execute.
That partnership made it possible. Mountain Rush opened at 410 W. Main in August 2025, right in the heart of downtown.
How has your vision evolved since opening?
The core vision remains intact, but experience has helped refine it. We’ve learned what works best within our current footprint and what resonates
most with families.
Laser tag combined with birthday parties has been a tremendous success, and we’re currently upgrading the arena. Our golf simulator has attracted a
wide demographic, from serious golfers wanting access to PGA courses to young guests enjoying the interactive games. We’re even considering
adding a second simulator.
Arcade gaming has exceeded expectations. What started modestly has grown to 31 machines, serving everyone from young children to grandparents. Some features—like go-karts and rock climbing- will come later as part of future expansion plans. The long-term vision now includes the possibility of a second facility to accommodate larger attractions.
Listening to the community, especially those who actively attend, has been key to our growth.
What activities and experiences do you currently offer?
Mountain Rush offers:
Laser tag for up to 10 players at a time (with party rotations accommodating much larger groups)
A five-player immersive virtual reality arena, plus VR escape room experiences
A golf simulator featuring 40 PGA courses worldwide
31 arcade machines
A lounge area with billiards, cornhole, foosball, and retro games
A toddler inflatable play area
A private movie theater available for films or gaming
Full-service birthday party packages
Birthday celebrations are especially popular, and booking is highly recommended.
Do you host both small groups and larger events?
Absolutely. Walk-ins are welcome during open play hours (Thursday–Saturday afternoons and Sunday afternoons). We also accommodate reserved group events of all sizes.
For golf simulator or theater reservations, booking at least one week in advance is recommended. Birthday parties often book a month or more
ahead, especially for Saturdays. Reservations can be made online or via Facebook Messenger.
Are there special elements that make Mountain Rush unique?
Our goal has always been to offer experiences not currently available within the immediate region. The multiplayer virtual reality arena is
especially unique, allowing five people to play together in the same immersive environment.
Our birthday party setup is also distinctive. Families receive access to over 7,000 square feet of space, combining multiple activities in one celebration.
We also provide thoughtful extras like spare diapers in restrooms, emergency party supplies, and full cleanup service, at no additional cost.
We strive to go above and beyond in hospitality.
What do you love most about welcoming families into your space?
Our mission is to glorify God by providing quality, wholesome family entertainment that benefits individuals, families, and the community.
Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they walk through the doors is incredibly rewarding. Watching families interact, laugh, and enjoy time
together confirms that we are meeting a real need in this area.
That sense of purpose is what I love most.
How has the Covington community supported your growth?
The support has been tremendous. Local businesses have promoted us, families have shared their experiences by word of mouth, and five-star
reviews have helped spread awareness.
We’ve partnered on events like New Year’s Eve celebrations with Olde Town Covington, and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department has
been supportive in collaborative efforts. Teen Tuesdays in 2026 will further expand our outreach.
When I see someone online ask, “Where can I take my kids?” and others respond by tagging Mountain Rush, that’s powerful support.
The roller-skating rink has been a long-term dream. What’s your vision for it?
The skating rink is the largest phase of the project—approximately a $300,000 investment. While financing remains a hurdle, progress is being
made. Local contractors are ready when funding is secured.
The best way the community can help bring this vision to life is by continuing to support Mountain Rush today. A strong revenue history
strengthens our position with lenders.
How can the community best support you right now?
Visit. Experience it. Tell others about it.
“I’ll check that place out someday” can unintentionally be the downfall of many small businesses. Supporting local now makes future growth
possible.
Where can readers learn more or book a visit?
Facebook: Mountain Rush
Website: https://mountainrushva.com
Phone: 540-987-4035
A proposed family entertainment venue aims to include a skating rink, an amenity that would enhance local recreation, support youth engagement,
and strengthen community gathering spaces.
The owner recently shared a compelling vision:
If 1,000 individuals contributed $300 each, the skating rink could become a reality.
Community members interested in donations, partnerships, or investment opportunities are invited to connect for additional details.
Closing Statement
Thank you for sharing your time and insights. Your perspective is valuable, and conversations like this help the City better understand how to support
downtown businesses and community amenities. As the owner noted, if 1,000 supporters contributed $300 each, the vision of a local skating rink
could become a reality. We hope this feedback helps inform future efforts, and please know my door is always open for continued discussion and collaboration.
