Re: Marina Entance gate question
Haha, you may have to get there crazily early, like 6 am if that's your goal. Last year before we knew that Maverick wasn't going to be open on time some friends and I made plans to be at the Magnum gate (shortest rout to Maverick, I walked it off in 2006) by 6:30. Well, once we found out Maverick wasn't going to open, we decided to meet at the same time because we already had plans, only we met at the Marina gate instead to try and be the first ones on MF. Point in case: My friends and a few other people I know that go opening day every year are crazy and will be there at a gate at 6:30 in the morning. My tip if you do that is to bring some donuts and drinks with you so you can have breakfast. 
Luckily, this year you won't have to worry about beating me, since I'll be working. My friends though...well, I guess you'll find out, because I don't know what they're doing. 
Blue Streak crew 2007
ATL Matterhorn Tri. 2008
Three things you need to fix anything in the universe: duct tape, WD-40, and a hammer. Duct tape if it moves and it shouldn't, WD-40 if it doesn't move and should, and the hammer as the last resort.