Got to clap with the "Clapping Man" :)

[RobertaMomof2]

We were waiting for Jungle Cruise shortly after opening on our last of 5 days at the parks. We were in the ADA waiting area, and a very old gentlemen was exiting a boat and started walking towards me and started to clap. I recall hearing about him before, and think I saw him (from afar) in the past and quickly (thankfully) realized who he was. I starting to clap to his rythm as well, and his eyes danced with joy and we both smiled and laughed as he walked closer to our group and clapped together. My kids looked at me like I was nuts, and one of the CMs smiled (older gentlemen himself) and started clapping too. My kids started clapping as well, at this point and we all laughed and said thank you to each other for the precious moment in time, and he walked away, off to another ride. We were now getting ready to get on our ride. The CM told me he rides every day, and had the pleasure to be the captain of the boat when it was the Clapping Man's 92nd birthday a few years ago. I hope when I am 90+ I still have the joy this man had in Disneyland. I am glad we shared a moment and my kids got to share in it too. Anyone else have a Clapping Man story?

 

[lozzypop]

The clapping man is Peter Tu and he is a Disneyland regular. His granddaughter posted a video about him on YouTube. Aside from his distinct clapping style, he also had a signature handshake that he would share with CMs. I expect though with post-pandemic protocols that the handshake is not encouraged (by anyone). My daughter and I have seen/heard him a couple of times over the years. He is usually at DL in the morning, and some rides you will see him on include: Jungle Cruise, Indy, Big Thunder, Autopia, and I think Small World too.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

So glad to hear that Mr. Tu is doing well and back at DL!

 

[Luv Bunnies]

We've seen him a few times, most recently this past November. It's always fun to see him so happy and having such a good time!

 

[lalasmama]

Mr. Tu!
A few years ago when we were in the parks with grandson #2, we rode Jungle Cruise with Mr. Tu. My grandson didn't get what a "big deal" it was, but he was newly 7, so it was just mostly him thinking that Grammy was being weird. I still think back to that ride and the clapping before we went off on our cruise

 

[ajrwdwgirl]

I'm glad to hear he is still going to the parks. I was hoping to see him during my visit last week but I did not and I was a little worried about him so it is good to know he still visits DL and spreads some joy.

 

[wabbott]

Just rode the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Peter. Got my pic with him. Best day ever!!

 

[Tinkaboo]

Well, that is the definitive answer to oldest person at DL I guess! I had never read about this gentleman…now I’m going to be looking for him when I go! Sounds like an awesome dude!

Update: just watched his video on YouTube. How cool is that…neat fellow!

 

[chezcurrie]

Oh my, I hope our paths cross with Mr. Tu! What fun energy!!!

 

[DizMe]

To be honest, the first time I saw him (many years ago), I was kind of annoyed at the clapping. As time went by and I realized what it was about, I thought it was awesome. Keep clapping, Mr. Tu!!

 

[Geemo]

Just rode the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Peter. Got my pic with him. Best day ever!!

Mr. Tu survived a ride on the Matterhorn Bobsleds?
Whoa Nellie that ride kills me every time and I'm only 70.

Mr. Tu YouTube video

 

[wabbott]

Mr. Tu survived a ride on the Matterhorn Bobsleds?
Whoa Nellie that ride kills me every time and I'm only 70.

Mr. Tu YouTube video

I was in the seat directly behind him. He hopped out like a 12 year old. That was kinda discouraging to my 73 yr old body.

 

[mich311e]

It's always a pleasure to see Peter Tu! I even got excited watching an episode of Fresh Baked when I saw him in the background riding a Main Street vehicle.