“Speed. Faster than fast, quicker than quick. I am Lightning.” While I may not be Lightning McQueen, I sure felt like him when I did a NASCAR Experience ride-along at Charlotte Motor Speedway to celebrate the in-home release of Cars 3.
This was my second visit to Charlotte Motor Speedway in a month and even for someone who is new to the world of NASCAR, like I am, it’s a fun experience even on a non-race day! We started our visit by climbing in a bus to tour the speedway.
Yes!Charlotte Motor Speedway is so big that you need to get in a bus to tour the whole thing. The speedway’s 7 racetracks spread over 2,000 acres. Not only are there race tracks but there are lots of other facilities including garages, it’s own fire station and dedicated medical center, where 7-9 doctors are stationed each race day. The medical center also has a helicopter pad, where a helicopter must be ready and waiting during races.
And what is a NASCAR race track without NASCAR racers? While at Charlotte Motor Speedway I also had a chance to meet NASCAR Driver Daniel Suárez, who voices the character Daniel “Danny” Swervez. Danny competes full-time in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 19 Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing.
But, the highlight of my visit to Charlotte Motor Speedway was definitely the NASCAR Racing Experience ride along with a professional driver. A NASCAR car is totally unlike a “regular” car. Sure the shell may be similar, but everything else is NOT! First of all, there are no doors. to get in, you have to climb through the window. I was happy that wasn’t quite as tricky as I thought it would be! Inside the car you don’t have just a simple seatbelt. There is a whole harness system to make sure you are safely and securely strapped in. Inside the car it is super HOT and super LOUD, but also super FUN!
Riding around the track is a thrill. You totally feel that speed! I thought I would feel a little more scared or nervous riding at those speeds, but the driver was a pro and I felt totally confident in his abilities to keep us both safe. The ride was way too quick and I’m ready to head back to Charlotte to ride again!
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Kimberly Flickinger says
This looks like a very cool experience, I so envy you. Thank you for sharing your experience and pictures.
Barrie says
I’ve always wanted to to do this! We have a ride along in Kentucky at the race track. After reading your post, I definitely want to go now!
Heather says
I love that McQueen has returned to the race track in this new Cars movie. Such a fun addition to the franchise. Seeing you on the speedway is making me even more excited to rewatch the movie.
Sarah says
This would be so fun! I would totally do it and love every minute of it. My kids are excited to watch Cars again, they love McQueen and Mater.
shelly peterson says
Wow such a fun experience. I would love to do that myself.
Sarah L says
My brother would love to have done that.
Dandi D says
Sounds like a really fun time–my son would love this!
Laurence Price says
I love watching NASCAR racing. It is so fun. I like fast cars and this sport provides me with that.