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| - My eyeballs were sucked into a black hole the moment I jammed on that brake pedal. Most people will only notice how fast their car can go rather than how fast it can stop. I'm here to tell you, the F430 GT can do it all, and do it pretty damn good.
Selection:
The F430 GT, being the most expensive car to drive, is actually a good value considering the rare opportunity. They do, however, have street/super cars that are available as well. My friend opted for the GT-R and I know many people who want to be Tony Stark so you can probably register for the R8. Note that the F430 GT most likely does not have a dual clutch transmission so the ride is not exactly the smoothest between gears. Not that it matters much anyway, but it makes enough of a difference to notice.
Booking:
You may book on their website or via phone. I don't want to speak on their behalf, but I believe they take walk-ins too. Credit cards are accepted. You also have the option to pre-pay for your on-board video (720 HD) if booking online. Booking the F430 GT allowed us (the driver +1 guest) to have access to the shuttle and lounge snacks/drinks.
Shuttle Pick-Up:
On the day of your race, you should show up at the Ferrari F430 GT parked in City Center - Crystals shopping area 1st floor (if you booked the F430 GT) about 45 minutes prior to your racing appointment. Otherwise, the shuttle is not available for super car reservations (unless you are a +1). You will have to cab or drive yourself to the Las Vegas Motorway.
Check-In:
You will sign wavier forms that they say are, "so you are not responsible for the car, and we are not responsible for your health/body."
Simulation:
I was told that the simulation should only be used as a tool to familiarize yourself with the layout of the track. You can also find a video of their track map online. It did manage to scare me a little though because I ran off the road twice, unfortunately. I clocked 58 seconds on the simulator as my best lap. Is it realistic? Hard to say. It's more of a game to me than a simulator. The track is accurate, but the specifications on the car and its capabilities are debatable.
On-Track:
These guys buckled me in. How crazy is that? You get a short briefing before heading in to do the big boy stuff. Start your engine then off you go!
After reviewing the video, I crossed the finish line 5 times as it should be if you paid for 5 laps (in my opinion). My best lap unfortunately clocked in at 1 minute which at the time, felt quick, but in actuality, it was really slow. I have come to the conclusion that instructors give guidance with general race techniques that are not quite the fastest, but easiest to manage. Not saying my technique is better, but freedom of style should be allowed.
After the race, I actually did want to give my instructor a tip, but I was overly-occupied. At the end of the day, he saved me from under-steering with good guidance and really tried to get me to push it.
Service:
Ashley! Did I get your name right? Our awesome tour guide, photographer, and avid shade seeker. I want to thank you for taking such good care of us. The rest of the staff including the shuttle driver, simulation instructor, track instructor, and even the co-owner, thank you all for making my short time in Vegas worth it.
Overall:
I have already returned to Hawaii, but I still think about this day and what an amazing experience Dream Racing has provided me.
Last minute tips:
Show up for the shuttle on time!
Hydrate. It gets hot in those cars. Especially with a racing suit over your clothes.
If you plan to TIP, have cash ready in your pocket and do not go digging for it in your wallet.
Buy the picture! You won't want to forget this day. I'm going to tell my future kids about it.
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