RPDE: Ride-Along Program

[DLBDS]

Anyone ever do the Richard Petty Driving Experience Ride-Along Program? I'm talking about the one where you're riding shotgun for only about 3 laps? Is it worth the $100+? Maybe this is a guy thing 'cause I just don't see where this would be worth $100+. I'm trying to find something for my DH to do on his birthday. He's not a big NASCAR fan but he'll watch races on occassion. What's your opinion on the ride-along?

BTW, I'm only interested in the ride-along. The other driving programs are just insanely out of my price-range.

 

[scoolover]

My brother did it and loved it. He would do it again. Sorry I can't help with details.

 

[slo]

My DH has done the Richard Petty Experience 4 times - but he was in the drivers seat. If he were posting this, he would say the ride-a-long would be awesome for your DH because it's awesome to be in one of those cars

I think this would be a great thing for your DH to do on his birthday!!!

 

[TNDisDad]

I did the Ride-Along back in September and thought it was great. They take you on a "qualifying run" which is one lap to get up to speed (that doesn't take long) and 2 full laps. The $100 was pricey but I plan to do it again when we go in December (good wife willing). Allow for about 30 minutes total (depending on crowd). When we were there we did not have to make an appointment, we just showed up and they let us put on the racing suit and off we went. They will also let you photograph or video if you want (they will also take a picture of him in the car and offer it at an expectedly inflated price) - I know..you would think $100 would include a picture. At the time I did the ride, I was just a casual fan...but that along with going to a Bristol race is developing into an obsession.

 

[DLBDS]

Hmmm.....Me thinks this is definitely a guy thang. Okaaaay. This'll be at the top of the list for him to do on his birthday. Since it falls on a Saturday, and if I choose to do it, I'll definitely make a reservation in advance. Dang. The things we do for love!

 

[wright1baby]

Actually, unless your doing the Rookie Experience ($$$) the ride-a-long cannot be reserved. It is first come first served! Worth every penny--My father is 70 and has done the Rookie and Ride-a-long and loved EVERY minute of both!

 

[DLBDS]

Actually, unless your doing the Rookie Experience ($$$) the ride-a-long cannot be reserved. It is first come first served! Worth every penny--My father is 70 and has done the Rookie and Ride-a-long and loved EVERY minute of both!

Thanks for that. For anyone interested, here's the website for the RPDE:

http://www.1800bepetty.com/home.aspx

 

[wright1baby]

Just as an FYI...seems like some of the tracks offer a AAA discount and some do not. Definately worth it to at least bring your card and ask. I think it was 20%!!

eta...we've never done RPDE at WDW so I cannot speak to whether or not they accept it--worth a try!