Do I need a driver's license?
Yes, driving participants must have a valid (legal and not expired), government-issued driver's license (from any country).
Is there an age requirement?
All driving participants must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license.
Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?
Participants must be between 5'0" and 6'4", and weigh between 100 and 300 lbs. Participants must be in good health, and be able to enter and exit the car unassisted through a window opening 15" high, 30" wide, sitting 36" off the ground, with little or no assistance.
Please call Virgin Experience Gifts prior to purchase if there is any question surrounding the participant meeting these requirements to ensure participation is possible.
What is the track like?
Pocono Raceway has long been recognized as one of NASCAR's most competitive tracks in the NASCAR circuit, featuring two NASCAR Cup races each year. The 2.5-mile tri-oval superspeedway has a unique design, with each of its 3 turns modeled after a different track in the US. Turn 1: (14-degree banking) is modeled after the former Trenton Speedway. Turn 2: (sometimes referred to as "The Tunnel Turn") reflects the 8-degree banking of the infamous Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Turn 3: (6-degree banking) boasts the likes of the renowned Milwaukee Mile.
Although referred to as a tri-oval track style, the Pocono Raceway's turns are more similar to a triangle shape, as its turns are much sharper than other typical tri-oval tracks (such as Daytona).
What is a typical day like?
The stock car driving programs begin with a detailed orientation on the operation of the race cars, safety equipment and track rules. This is followed by an informative tour of the race track with a professional instructor. Next you'll be fitted for a racing suit and helmet. Then you'll climb in, strap up and take control of a Sprint Cup style stock car. As you leave the pit and enter the 2.5-mile superspeedway you will experience an adrenaline rush only known to the racing world. The drive sessions are run in a follow the leader format. An instructor will lead 2 students following at 4 car lengths. Each lap your confidence builds and the lead instructor increases the speed. Upon completion of the program, each participant will receive a certificate of achievement and memories that will last a lifetime.
Do I need to know how to drive a stick?
No, the experience provider has 3 cars with automatic transmissions in addition to manual cars, so it's not required to know how to operate a manual transmission.
These are real stock cars, just like the big boys drive on Sunday: 4-speed Fords, Chevys and Dodges.
Do I need to purchase insurance?
No, insurance is included in the cost of your experience which covers accidental damage to the cars.
How fast will I go?
Fast! While each person is different, students can expect to reach speeds of 140 MPH.
Can I choose the car that I will drive?
No. Unfortunately, the driving school cannot guarantee which exact cars will be at the track on a given date, nor can they promise the specific car a participant will be assigned to for his/her drive. Each participant is assigned to a car with careful consideration based on individual height and weight.
Can guests come along to the race track?
Yes. We encourage you to have friends and family share in the experience with you and have cameras ready! The track will have a special seating area available for guests to safely watch the action. We recommend that spectators bring blankets/lawnchairs, as seating in this area is sometimes limited.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 4 weeks in advance.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, climate-appropriate clothing and close-toed shoes. A driving suit (worn over your clothing) and helmet will be provided to all participants.
Can I bring my own gear to use?
Participants are welcome to bring their own helmet and driving suit. All participant gear will be inspected by the track operator for formal approval on the day of the experience. The driving school will provide a replacement if the participant is not authorized to use any of his/her own gear.
What is the policy on rain/weather?
This experience is weather dependent. However, it does run in the rain. Every effort will be made to operate all sessions. You are required to report to the track and register in person on your scheduled date, regardless of current or forecasted conditions, unless otherwise previously contacted directly by the driving school. Failure to report to the track in person will result in a no-show, thereby forfeiting your opportunity to participate in the experience. Refunds are not provided for no-shows or weather-related cancellations. In the event that the driving school cancels your session, you will be provided a rain check good for one year from that date to complete your program.
What is the cancellation policy?
Once you have scheduled a date and received a booking confirmation, no returns or exchanges are allowed. You may reschedule up to 30 days prior to your reserved date with a $75 administrative fee. You may not reschedule within 30 days of your reserved date. If you cannot attend on your reserved date you may send a substitution at no additional charge.
Will the participant receive anything after completing the program?
Upon completion, each participant will receive a certificate of achievement and memories that will last a lifetime.
Can I get a photo of my experience?
Professional photos are available for purchase at the track on the day of your experience. The cost is $25 each, or 3 for $55. Prices are subject to change.
Is local area lodging available?
Yes, accommodations are available in the area.We advise waiting to make travel and lodging arrangements until you receive your final confirmation email from Virgin Experience Gifts. Your confirmation email will include contact information for your experience provider, who can recommend local lodging options.
