Indy Racing Experience to open at Walt Disney World Speedway
"Since we first began the Indy Racing Experience, fans have traveled the globe to feel firsthand what it is like to race around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – the Racing Capital of the World," said Indy Racing Experience co-owner Scott Jasek. "Millions of people also descend on the Orlando area annually for its renown attractions, including Walt Disney World, so we feel our Indy Racing Experience is both a unique and fitting addition to this exciting landscape."
Walt Disney World Speedway is a 1-mile, paved tri-oval located just outside the gates of the Magic Kingdom. The track's three corners are uniquely banked, with the first turn at 10 degrees, the second at 8.5 degrees, and the third and final turn at 7 degrees. The IndyCar Series competed at the track from 1996-2000. Davey Hamilton, who will drive the Indy Racing Experience 2-seater in the opening weeks, was one of five drivers to christen the track in a "Flying V" formation during the facility's first test on Nov. 28, 1995.
"The Walt Disney World Speedway was actually home to my first IndyCar Series race, so obviously that track is special to me and I'm anxious to get back there," said Hamilton, who has finished in the top 15 at the Indianapolis 500 the past two seasons. "Disney is a unique design that is different from any other track out there. It's not your typical oval or tri-oval; the corner banking and elevation change in the back makes this track a thrill to drive."
The Indy Racing Experience has given more than 12,000 rides to celebrities, media, race fans and thrill seekers over the past eight years. It will share track hours daily with the popular Richard Petty Driving Experience and operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.