Be taken for a ride (in a good way) at Ford's research facility
The folks at Petrolhead Nirvana - the guys behind the Dad's Day Out at Dunsfold - are bringing you another event where you can ride in a supercar on track. And once again it's all in aid of chari-dee. This time it's Ford's Dunton test track that, on 5th September, will become the venue for a supercar show with a twist.
The formula is simple: get a track, get a load of supercars with enthusiastic owners to drive people around it, and donate all the funds to the Little Havens Children's Hospice.
The Supercar owner/drivers are giving their time for free, and Ford has kindly leant us its test track at the Dunton research facility; so it's all go for another fantastic day out.
As well as a mix of Ferraris and Lamborghinis there'll be a number of specialist cars around too; Ariel Atoms, KTM X-Bows, Dodge Vipers, AC Cobras and some other special guests yet to be confirmed.
But it's not just about riding in or watching the cars go around the track. There's a whole host of other activities and shows to keep you occupied.
There's a funfair with all the normal rides (including dodgems), giant inflatables (hopefully the big kids can have a go too), an F1 Simulator, a giant Scalextric, go karts, live music all day, and a BBQ (and plenty of other catering as well).
A classic car display area will also feature around 60 cars, and there will be a trade stall area for useful bits and bobs and a face painting area. You can even get your car washed while you're there by a professional company (proceeds all to charity). There will also be a driving competition, and a pit stop (change a wheel) competition.
There's a special PH car park too. All you need to do is mention PH on the gate and you'll be directed there.
Entry costs £5 per person (£3 for children) whilst a family ticket is just £12. Supercar rides are priced at just £20 for two laps of the circuit - though it's best to book your entry and ride tickets in advance.
I went there last year, Jaykabi's superb Kent run finished up there. Had a passenger ride in Jeremy Clarkson's old Ford GT, now tuned to 650bhp. Was great, did 160mph on the straight, fastest I have ever been in a car. The banking is VERY narrow and choppy and you would not want to go much over 50mph anyway. But we did ;-0
I work there and spend most of my time on the track. 70 is about the limit through the banking say 80 if you are in a decent car and feeling brave. It's pretty bumpy. The back straight is quite longish though. Not really The best place for a Supercar ride in my opinion mind. This was built as a "high speed test track" in the days when Ford were making anglias.
I went there last year, Jaykabi's superb Kent run finished up there. Had a passenger ride in Jeremy Clarkson's old Ford GT, now tuned to 650bhp. Was great, did 160mph on the straight, fastest I have ever been in a car. The banking is VERY narrow and choppy and you would not want to go much over 50mph anyway. But we did ;-0
Hi Phil Its Nigel Becky's Husband Hope to see you there for a 160mph experience with my son Toby (petrol head) hope all is well regards Nigel scoobysubaru
how do you sign up to drive round the track? And what is considered acceptable?
The driving slots were mainly filled from those who helped out last year (as per Dunsfold) essentially they are drawn from Club Scuderia, Lamborghini Club and Petrolhead Nirvana members and are either supercars or unusual cars such at the KTM, Viper or Cobra.
The criteria is that the car needs to be interesting/exciting enough for people to want to pay for over and above a Ferrari or Lamborghini.
It's full for this year with a waiting list, but if you have a Ferrari then Club Scuderia is the place to join for next years event.
Its a fantastic day out and there should be lots of interesting metal there. The track is obviously very different than Dunsfold but its still a great feeling hitting 90 mph
My old man will be taking the car round as I am committed for the day elsewhere, but this is on of the highlights of Club Scuderia's calendar and we have been lucky enough to raise lots of money for Littlehavens which provides a wonderful work to very deserving children.
I have driven the Dunton Track many times in a Ferrari and I believe it an ideal and safe place to give passengers a real sensation of a supercar driven at speed safely. It is usual to see cars reach 155 in the straights and take the banking at 70mph which is about the neutral speed. There is no overtaking.
It is a great day for a great cause . Last year raised £20,000 but looking for £30,000 this year I believe.
Please come along and enjoy a ride or 2 and the special attractions I cannot see that any petrolhead will be dissappointed.