The Bend launches Drive Experience Program

The Bend Motorsport Park has launched its Drive Experience Program, allowing punters to drive a variety of different cars on both tarmac and gravel.

Having run a trial day in December 2018, The Bend has now launched the program to the public and intends to initially run one per month, as well as private bookings. A minimum of 12 people are required to make the day viable but there is capacity for up to 48 participants.

8

Six vehicles make up the standard Drive Experience fleet, with participants driving each vehicle throughout the day. To add a level of competition, each activity is scored, with a trophy provided to the winner of each discipline, as well as a Driver of the Day award.

A number of circuit configurations are used to suit the characteristics of each vehicle. Go Karts run on The Bend’s international-standard go kart track, Herrod-prepared 2018 Ford Mustangs can be driven on the East Circuit, Clubman-style cars and V8 Race Cars use the West Circuit, there’s a 4WD loop and the chance to drive a rally-spec Subaru Impreza RS on the gravel circuit.

8

Thrillseekers can experience a Superbike pillion ride, provided they meet height and weight critera, while the chance to either drive the Formula Toyota single seater or passenger in The Bend's custom two-seater version is also available as an added extra. Race suit and helmet are provided and the experience includes coaching from a professional instructor, all meals and USB onboard footage from the V8 Race Car.

8

The Bend Drive Experience costs $2145 per person, with a Formula Toyota drive and passenger ride adding $214.50 and $104.50 respectively. The Bend’s Marketing Manager, Michael Rossi, describes it as the pinnacle experience offered by the impressive motorsport facility, which played host to 2019 Performance Car of the Year.

The MOTOR team hopes to head across to Adelaide in the near future and provide a verdict on the program!