Richard Petty's Driving Experience ???

[TmnsnMD]

I'm not sure where to post this, so please move this if you need to.

Has anyone done the Richard Petty's Driving Experience "Rookie" session? Was it worth the cost? Were there videos or pictures for sale afterward? Now the big question — are there any discounts (codes, AAA, etc)?

Any help would be great — I would love to do this for DH when we go in Aug 2004.

Thanks,
TmnsnMD

 

[adamak]

DH just did it last week, and he had a blast! He did the rookie one (8 laps), then he purchased additional 8 laps on the spot, which gave him a 50% off the 2nd 8-lap.

You can get the official photos for $25 on paper frame (around that costs)..... or $60+ on a metal plague. We bought it and it looks so good. I don't recall them selling video tape though. I took tons of pictures and if you have a camcorder, you can do it yourself.

We get a 10% discount with DVC membership. You can also get 10% on AE card or Orlando Magic card (free).

I highly recommend this to any DH or DS or SO who kinda want to try but don't know what to expect. Don't worry. It's very safe, and every men in that group acted like a kid again. I have never seen so many men thanking their wives / girlfriends / SO after the ride. They all had the biggest smile on them. It's magical.

 

[jjpounds]

What is the cost and do you actually get to drive or is it shotgun all the way?

 

[timkin]

Oh.. You get to drive.. You follow a pace car that gets you up to speed. I paid $300 to drive at Michigan. I believe it was a little cheaper at DIS. At Michigan I believe you get to a top speed of about 160-165 with average lap speed about 150. Very Coool. It's like you are driving a 3400 lb go kart. It slides through the corners to the point that it feels like you will loose it but it sticks like glue to the track.

 

[TmnsnMD]

Thanks for the info -- this just sounds way to COOL to pass up. DH is going to need the special time for just HIM. This time we are taking 4 kids with us not just our 1 like last time. I think I will make this for one of the days in the middle of our trip and TRY to keep it a surprise!

Do you know where I should call to reserve a time slot or do you just wait until you get there to arrange a time slot?


Thanks again,
TmnsnMD

 

[TracyIdaho]

My dh did this last week, too, and had an absolute ball. He did the ride-along. I wish I'd known about the MagicCard discount! Next time...anyway, just wanted to tell you that I wouldn't wait too long into your trip because they close the track if they can't get it dry after a rain. We did it our first morning (totally surprised him) and it worked out so well. He was just like a kid again!

Have fun!

 

[adamak]

http://www.1800bepetty.com/index2.html

This links gives you better info. Rides available everyday except Tues / Thurs. They have only 2 sessions : 8am or 1pm. Rookie is $349. If you purchase a 2nd 8-lap that day (and drive it) before you leave, the 2nd lap will be 50% off.

I also remember that you can get a discount on ride-along if your partner is doing the rookie laps (you'll ride along with instructors only in separate cars).

You first watch a 5 min video. Then the drivers go on a van and run thru the laps slowly twice. Then each driver will take turn and get their laps. Each drives behind an instructor's car, so 2 cars only on the tracks at all time. It's really not a bad wait.

I think you should schedule it on the first couple of days of your vacation. If it rains, you'll be given a voucher good for one year. Also, if it's in the summer, schedule for the monring session, since there is usually afternoon rain.

DH had a blast.