For my 66th birthday, my daughter gifted me an exhilarating driving experience featuring four fast cars, along with a thrilling ride with a professional driver. This was a long-cherished item on my bucket list, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity. Coincidentally, I discovered an event scheduled at Pembrey racetrack in Carmarthenshire, approximately 40 miles away, just a week later.
After contacting the company to confirm my attendance, I decided to spend the night in my campervan nearby, accompanied by my wife and our two dogs. Unfortunately, the nearest campsite was fully booked, prompting us to search for a quiet, safe spot to park.
As time passed and my hunger grew, I resolved to treat myself to an Indian takeaway from Naz Rasoi Indian Restaurant. While my wife took the dogs for a brief walk, I placed our order and was pleasantly surprised by the warm hospitality of the staff.
Initially, I intended to eat and then relocate the campervan to a quieter area for the night, but upon inquiring about parking, I was kindly informed that it was permissible without a meal purchase. This generous offer allowed me to enjoy their delicious food and have a couple of drinks. My wife soon returned and joined me in the restaurant along with our two pooches. The meal was exceptional,particularly the homemade onion bhajis, which were among the best I have ever tasted.
After a peaceful night and a refreshing sleep, I was ready for the big day ahead, where I had chosen to drive two Lamborghinis, a McLaren F40, and an Audi R8 as part of my four-car experience.
I was offered the option of photos or video, with the latter priced at £40, which I opted for. Insurance was also necessary, costing £55 to cover the four cars, a practice lap was available for £40 and with a late booking fee my total came to £195 before even starting the experience!
The initial lap in the Audi was rather uneventful, as the new instructor, understandably nervous, maintained a cautious pace while providing guidance. The second lap in the Audi did not impress me either; I felt my own Mercedes AMG had superior acceleration. Anticipation built as I awaited my turn in the McLaren, but my excitement waned when I struggled to enter the car, awkwardly falling into the seat! (We’ve all been there! Ed)
After a brief photo session, we set off, and the instructor offered valuable tips, resulting in a more exhilarating experience. However, I found the interior lacking compared to my expectations, despite the McLaren’s impressive performance.
The subsequent laps in the Lamborghinis were a delight, particularly in the Huracán, which boasted a thrilling engine roar and electrifying performance. The instructor appreciated my driving skills, enhancing the enjoyment of the experience.
The Gallardo, while older and deserving of respect, did not quite match the excitement of the Huracán, though it still had its own charm.
The highlight was the exhilarating white-knuckle ride in a BMW 140, where I experienced a thrilling journey with two unknown passengers, characterised by sharp turns and sudden braking, all expertly managed.
I would certainly recommend this experience; however, considering my daughter had already spent £95 on the gift, I would forgo the practice lap and the video, as my wife captured sufficient memories from a distance!
