Let me start by saying I’ve never really followed NASCAR. I’ve been to some races when I was younger, but I’ve always had other interests. My Dad, however, has always been a fan.
One of my sisters had the idea of surprising our Dad with a driving experience at a place near her. Everyone pitched in on the gift and we added it to the calendar. Time passed, life happened, and it got rescheduled a couple of times. He had some health issues and we weren’t sure he could still participate. Through some amazing communication with the venue, she confirmed it could still happen, and we made travel plans.
April 18th was the day! We came from several states to celebrate our Dad, who will be 85 this year.
We didn’t know what to expect other than he would be driving 10 laps, and then have another four laps in ride-along with a NASCAR driver. We thought we would enjoy HiS enjoyment and it would be fun to have everyone together. We hoped it wouldnt rain and hoped he would have a good time.
This place was absolutely amazing. Team Texas David Starr's Racing School exceeded all our expectations! They treated us like family, and took care of our Dad like he was one of their own. The emphasis was on safety, but they made it fun. At the end of the safety class they let the other drivers know they had an 84 year old driving, and all afternoon people were telling us how amazing he was, and shaking his hand. Big thanks to David Starr Racing and Kim Wright Starr for being so genuine and kind.
I cannot emphasize enough what an amazing experience this was! From someone who doesn’t know the people or the background (or have much of an interest) I had a blast! It doesn’t matter if you’ve ever had an interest in racing - this was so much fun!! There were people driving the cars with the pro in the passenger seat, people doing ride-alongs with the professional driving, and we even rode in an open limo on the track…
This was a once-in-a-lifetime event for Dad, and he is over the moon happy about his experience! He got up today with a huge smile on his face and I am so thankful for the kind people we met yesterday. If you’re looking for a fun family activity for EVERYONE to enjoy...
Read moreI drove both the Nascar Experience and Team Texas Driving Schools. I will not say anything bad about one or the other but you will see my choice going forward. Here's a few difference. NE = Nascar experience TT = Team Texas
If you Drive NE - charges by the minutes 5,8,16,24,32,40 and 48. 5 minutes might get you 2 laps as the car has to build speed TT - charges by the laps 10,20 and so on.
Rates as of today. NE - 8 minutes $439.99 Add Driver’s Fee + $44.99 Total: $484.98. TT - 10 Lap Driving School - $299
NE - spotter somewhere outside of car. To communicate you have to push button while driving, not the best practice for someone wanting to go fast and trying to focus on the track. TT- Instructor in passenger seat.
TT - gets up to 10 cars on track at same time, the instructors work well together and allow you to pass safely.
NE - Look like the actual Nascar. TT - These cars are purchased directly from NASCAR Xfinity and Cup teams like Robert Yates and Richard Childress Racing.
2 things I like - Authentic and more for less - I will be going to Team Texas in future. Not only cheaper for more laps but I believe in supporting local companies.
I believe TT is under new ownership, I heard it stayed in the family and now current NASCAR driver David Starr is the owner / operator. Meaning its not just another NASCAR driver selling his name rights to a product and not involved. I actually got to meet and shake David Starr's hand. Because he's right there in the middle of pit road directing the show. Not sure how he does it, he tries to spend literally a second to shake your hand and say Hi while keep things in order.
I doubt you well see Rusty Wallace, Richard Petty, and/or Mario Andretti in the trenches.
The company that owns NE is based out of CONCORD, North Carolina. You can verify by searching " Who owns NASCAR Racing Experience?"
Rusty Wallace Racing Experience - based out...
Read moreWe were season ticket holders and received a free ride along so we gave it to our son and bought a second for our future daughter in law. Be sure to read the release letter and make sure you’re willing to accept the consequences if you are involved in a crash. Also be aware that the passenger in the ride along does not (to my surprise) get the same protection as the driver. You are just in a seat belt harness and open face helmet with no window net. During my daughter in laws ride along her car crashed hitting the wall twice and bouncing around on the back side of turns 3 and 4 going approximately 160 miles an hour. The driver was unscathed but my daughter in law is now having to undergo her second back surgery. Just after the crash the people with Team Texas were very uncooperative and actually hid the car. They even refused to give our money back. They advised the ride was almost over. She was taken by ambulance to the hospital. She was 30 years old at the time. So just be sure you’re willing to give up your livelihood by signing that waiver. I’m sure there have not been very many crashes but when they happen it’s on you!! They really should provide better protection for the passengers - same as the driver. So think about that when you get into one of their cars. This particular car had had several issues previously per the driver the day of the crash. Those were his words standing beside the car...
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