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cmde
Driving Experience

Cleetus McFarland Driving Experience

Come join us for the Cleetus McFarland Driving Experience here at the Freedom Factory. We've built four Crown Vics just for you to race around the â…œ asphalt oval with 12 degree banking! The cars have been fitted with roll cages, race seats, RaceQuip safety equipment, and fresh Nitto tires just like the Crown Vics we race in our events. This is the perfect opportunity for you to race like all of your favorite drivers past and present. Limited availability! You must be 16 years of age and have a valid driver’s license to drive. Those under the age of 18, must have a minor waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.

What is included?

Classroom session with instructional video.
Ride-Along with one of our instructors.
20 solo laps on track in our custom Crown Vic Race Cars.
Special souvenir lanyard.
Souvenir T-shirt (Exclusive to those who purchase the CMDE)
SD Card with in-car video from your experience.


Breakdown of your day at the racetrack:

Registration
When you arrive, first you’ll check in at the General Admission Entrance. You'll sign your waiver form and Vehicle Protection Plan, if not already included in your driving package.

Driver Orientation
Once all the guests have arrived and registered, driver orientation begins. A racing school instructor covers the basics along with a quick training video.

Ride-Along
After driver orientation, you’re off to the ride-along. Each participant will get a ride-along before getting behind the wheel themselves. It will not only help you get comfortable being on track, but you'll have a better understanding of how the car operates and handles. You’ll also get a feel for the racing line while at speed, plus experience firsthand how fast the car is on the straightaways and through the turns.

Driver Orientation Recap
Now that you’re familiar with the proper driving lines and controls of the race car, the instructor will recap all of the safety features of the vehicle. Lastly, they will answer any questions you may still have. Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question. We want to make sure you are completely comfortable with all of the information you have learned.

Suiting Up
Here you’ll suit up in a fire-retardant racing suit over your clothes. You’re also fitted with a properly sized full-face helmet. Now you have everything needed to begin a safe driving experience.

Climbing into the Driver’s Seat
Once your race car is ready and your gear properly adjusted, it’s time to climb into the driver’s seat! Our staff gets you strapped into the vehicle. You'll have an in-car radio so you can hear your instructor while you're on track. We ensure that you’re comfortable and correctly restrained in a 5-point harness, and then you’re ready to race!

Racing the Track
Using an in-car radio, the instructor guides you out onto the track. They'll work with you on accelerating, braking, and finding your fastest line around the ⅜ asphalt oval. There will also be a flagman located before turn 3 signaling start and finish.

After Your Experience
When the checkered flag waves, it’s back into the pits and out of your safety gear. The best thing you’ll take away with you though, is the memory of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Unless, that is, you want to come back and do it all again!


FAQ's

Q. Do I need to have any racing experience?
A. Absolutely not. That’s why it will be the experience of a lifetime.

Q. How old do I have to be?
A. You must be 16 years of age and have a valid driver’s license to drive. Those under the age of 18, must have a minor waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.

Q. Do I have to have my own safety equipment?
A. The CMDE will have you covered for all your safety equipment. If you prefer to bring your own, helmets must be for automotive use and have a SA2015 or newer Snell rating.

Q. Is there a limit on driver size?
A. We have a large variety of helmets and suits, if you think you may have an issue, please reach out to us to confirm sizes of helmets and suits.

Q. How FAST will I go?
A. Fast. The freedom is up to you. These cars are not governed and we encourage you to safely put down your best laps.

Q. Are there other cars on the track?
A. No, your track time is set aside just for your experience.

Q. Can I just show up?
A. No, you must register in advance through our ticketing system to be guaranteed a spot.

Q. What if it rains?
A. We will try our very best to conduct the experience as scheduled. No matter what the forecast shows, CMDE will be the sole judge on canceling the experience. If canceled due to weather, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Q. What kind of cars?
A. These are fresh mint Crown Vics tuned just like the ones you’ve seen race in The Freedom 500, 2.4 Hrs of LeMullets, Indy 800, and Bristol 1000.

Q. What should I wear?
A. You’ll want to dress according to the weather. The cars and fire suits do get warm. Light clothing under your fire suit such as shorts and t-shirt. No open toed shoes. Tennis shoes or equivalent works best.

Q. Can anyone ride with me?
A. Due to insurance regulations, no passengers are allowed.

Q. Can my family come watch?
A. Your family is more than welcome to come watch and cheer you on. We’ll have a section just for them.

Q. Will I get to meet Cleetus or any of the crew?
A. There is no guarantee that you will meet anyone, but there’s always a chance someone may show up.

Q. Will concession stands be open?
A. No. Drivers will be given water and we will have drink vending machines on property. Concession stands will be closed so please bring additional food and drinks if needed.

Q. Will I be able to buy merchandise?
A. Yes. Not only will you get your exclusive CMDE T-shirt, but you and your guests will be able to buy merchandise on property.

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