We have been in Las Vegas for over seven years now, and have been fortunate to see and do so many great things. However, there was one place that we had never gone, even though we often said it was something
we had to do.
So finally, after all these years, we gathered up some friends and went over to Pole Position Raceway to see what all the fuss was about. And I must say it was worth the wait!
With boxing legend Jeff Mayweather, and BMX superstar Ricardo Laguna among our group, we all started talking trash before we even got to watch the safety video. Each one of us were sure that we would lap the field, leaving the others to eat our dust. While things didn’t unfold that way for most of us, we all had a blast for every second of the time we were out on the track.
First, let me say that Pole Position is not like the go-karts you may have grown up with. While fun, they often left you thirsting for more power and speed. Neither of these is a problem here as these karts are capable of exceeding 45 mph! Instead, the biggest problem you will face is trying to keep the karts under control as you fly around corners trying to figure out exactly how to handle each of a series of hairpin turns and fellow racers.
It was clear from the outset that a couple of us were taking things more serious than others. Ricardo, Chase and Jody were definitely out for blood. And with Chase and Ricardo having experience, they certainly had a leg up. But that wasn’t going to keep the rest of us from trying!
The green flag dropped and we were off, all trying to get into the first corner at the same time. A small pileup ensued, which got quite a laugh out of all of us, but also separated the field as Ricardo and Chase took
off, leaving the rest of us to go after them. It wasn’t meant to be, however, as they finished first and second. It would not be fair to call any of us losers though, as we all had the time of our lives. In fact, even with a helmet on, tires screeching, and the engine whining, you could hear laughter coming from each and every one of us on the track.
While we had the cars turned up, and were very much competing in an adult themed race, the beauty of Pole Position is that it can suit the needs of anyone. They have different driving packages that suit individuals and groups, and they also can set the cars for different speeds so that younger people can join in the fun too. So its great for a couple of friends, a date, a birthday party, or even a corporate function.
The one thing I was worried about was feeling safe. Because the cars go so fast, I was concerned about crashing and getting hurt. But those fears were quickly taken away. These cars are very wide and low to the ground, making them almost impossible to get off the track. In addition, the awesome staff does all they can to make sure your experience is as exciting and safe as possible. From presenting a safety video before you climb in that explains the rules of the track, to race helmets that make you feel like you are racing in Formula 1, they cover all the bases.
Another great feature they have is once the race is over, they give you a computerized printout which gives you information such as your finishing position, your average lap time, and how fast you went for each individual lap. How cool is that! We could see how much better (or worse in some cases) we got as the race went on.
Also, for those who like to film things, they have GoPro mounts available on both the helmets and the cars! So after the fun you can go back and review the action from your exact point-of-view.
Finally, what I really love about Pole Position is that you don’t have to be a fan of racing to have a great time. They have a ton of other things all over the place to entertain you. A variety of video games, a place to just relax, and even a lounge featuring a pool table are available to use.
Basically, it is the ultimate place to have a great time with a small or large group of friends.
Although it took us over seven years to check this place out, you can be sure we will be back much sooner next time. It was great to get away from things for a bit and just be a big kid once again. And that is exactly what you will feel like when you come here. It’s the perfect escape from the typical Las Vegas entertainment scene.
Pole Position Raceway-Las Vegas is located across the street from the Palms Casino and Resort. They have a shuttle operating daily making trips to and from various hotels along the Strip. Visit their website for directions to the Las Vegas go kart track and for more information about their complimentary shuttle service.
I would like to thank the staff at Pole Position Raceway for showing us an incredible time! We all truly had an awesome experience and can’t wait to do it again very soon.
Please be sure to make your own plans to get in some racing. It is someof the best entertainment to be found in Las Vegas. Check out their website HERE for more information.
Pole Position Raceway
4175 S. Arville #100
Las Vegas, NV 89103
One of the highlights of the day came near the end when Ricardo and Jeff had a shootout. Jeff was clearly over matched, but we secretly set up Ricardo’s car to go slower, allowing Jeff to pull off the huge upset! Check out how it all went down with these two from the GoPro we mounted on the helmet of Jeff.
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