Best episode ever, I’m just saying! I love cars, I’ve always loved cars, since I was a kid, growing up with three older brothers who loved cars, and there was really no other way for it to be.
So, imagine my excitement when I had an opportunity to go over to the Richard Petty Driving Experience, on my birthday for a chance to see another side of Walt Disney World and drive a real race car! I was like a kid in a candy store!
I went over early in the morning with my friend Ken who was helping to film the episode, big kudos to Ken for that, he did an awesome job with the video! We checked in, got a driving suit and gear, and sat in on the orientation and safety class, and then headed out to the track to see these awesome cars.
After a bit more instruction, understanding how the lead/follow system works on the track, and getting a driving order, we were ready to race!
I walked out on the track and up to the car and managed to get a leg up and in climbing through the window, this looks easier than it really is Next thing I know I’m sitting in a loud, powerful 600 horsepower real live race car!
The lead car pulled up into the position in front of me and gave the signal that we were ready to make our way out on the track. Accelerating down pit row, I was doing my best to remember to keep up with the lead car, shift gears and contain my excitement all at the same time.
Laughing all the way to the end of pit row, I was in fourth gear before we pulled onto the track. With each lap, the lead car picked up more and more speed and pushed each corner a little more as keeping the proper distance behind him.
I found myself smiling from ear to ear and sometimes just laughing out loud at how much fun I was having behind the wheel of this awesome car. And after eight short laps, the lead car gave me the signal that it was time to go in and end my fun for the day. This was definitely one of those not soon forgotten “bucket list” days for me. I really do have the best job ever!
So if you or someone close to you is a car nut, race fan, or just someone looking for a unique experience at Walt Disney World, this experience comes highly recommended!
Also, I want to give a big shout out to Rhino Ken for filming this episode, he did a great job and it was fun hanging out with him on my birthday at the Walt Disney World Speedway! And a big thanks to Traveling Harris for the editing job putting this episode together.
He did a fantastic job as well and it was a lot of fun working with him on this week’s show! Hit them up on Twitter or leave them a note in the comments section and show some appreciation.
