This is where you get to drive a race car like the pros do!
Grip the steering tight and put the pedal to the metal in a lightweight Late Model stock car. This is your chance to get behind the wheel and drive a real 400-plus horsepower racecar around Stafford Motor Speedway’s track at speeds up to 150 mph!
Your experience starts with a team of expert instructors bringing you up to speed on racing techniques before you take full control of the car. They’ll go over how to enter and exit the track, passing, the flags used, finding the line, safety procedures and much more.
Next, you’re suited up in a fire-retardant driving suit over your clothes and a full-face helmet. Then comes the part you’ve been waiting for!
Climb through the stock car’s window and get strapped into your 5-point racing harness. You’ll have an earpiece for the one-way radio set up under your helmet. As you are going around the track, you'll get feedback from the instructor on all aspects of racing including changing gears, cornering, and break points.
No previous stock car racing experience required!
2024 Dates*
- Buckle up for more dates coming soon!
*This experience has limited space and only select dates to choose from. Dates are subject to change.
Highlights:
- Soar around Stafford Motor Speedway's 1/2-mile asphalt oval.
- Feel the awesome power of a Late Model stock car's 400+ horsepower engine.
- Instruction and guidance from seasoned racing professionals.
Location: Stafford Springs, Connecticut , a short drive from Hartford.
The Cars:
- You'll be driving a real stock car that has raced in competitons.
- The Late Model car are designed to race on smaller short oval racetracks.
- The Late Model’s fiberglass body and strong chassis make the cars quicker and lighter than the larger Cup cars used at bigger ovals.
- The race cars all have standard transmission. If you need help operating a standard car the pit crews will help you exit the pit area and get to speed quickly.
How fast will I be able to go?
- Real fast! You are driving by yourself in the race car. The speeds will vary according to each driver’s individual performance.
Need to know:
- A valid driver’s license is required.
- The minimum age drive a race car is 18 years old. Ride Along minimum age is 14 years and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Minimum height requirement is 5′ tall.
- Maximum height allowable is 6′ 4″.
- Chest and waist cannot exceed 52".
- Drivers must be able to climb through a 15” high by 28” wide window that sits 35” from the ground.
- Wear clothes that will be comfortable under the driver’s suit.
- Closed-toed shoes are required. The shoes you wear should allow you to feel the pedals through the sole. A running shoe or equivalent usually works best (no boots). Open-toed shoes are not permitted.
- This experience is weather dependent. If your racing event is cancelled due to weather, your certificate will be rescheduled for a future date. Refunds cannot be issued.
- You are financially responsible for all damage caused to the car due to driver error. A Vehicle Protection Plan is available for $60.00, subject to a $1000.00 deductible. You can purchase optional insurance at the race car track on the day of your event. Due to the quality of the training and cars, damage is rare, but you will be responsible for any damage to the race car.