Best Gift Ever: V8 Race

The best gifts prove both thoughtful and exciting. They say that you considered what the recipient might really want – or might really want but just not know yet – and did not simply choose what was easiest for you to obtain. In my ongoing series, “The Best Gifts Ever,” I suggest unusual items that might please many a person on your to-gift list. This month: one of the V8 race experiences available at racetracks throughout Australia.

Dad – If your dad has a lead foot like mine does, give him the opportunity to go all out. Choose a V8 race that pairs him with a professional driving instructor who lets him take the wheel. He’ll get the high-speed rush of his lifetime, and you’ll get bragging rights with your siblings for giving the best gift ever. Or, be generous and share the idea – and the cost.

Mom – Don’t discount mom when considering who to use this gift idea on. After all, she did spend plenty of time behind the wheel, carting you to countless lessons, games and sleepovers during the course of your childhood. She also might enjoy getting out on the track with a V8 experience. You could actually give both mom and dad this gift as Christmas presents, so they could make a day of it together. Definitely loop the siblings in if you go this route.

Best Friend – Along the lines of giving a V8 Race each to both mom and dad, buy one for yourself and a best friend for a milestone birthday. What better way could there be to celebrate turning 30, 40, 50 or even 60 than spending the day speeding around a racetrack with a professional racecar driver. Look at the V8 experience packages at Eastern Creek International Raceway, Queensland Raceway and the challenging Morgan Park.

Outstanding Employee – Consider this the ultimate employee incentive. A friend used this as the top prize for a sales contest at her company and increased quarter-over-quarter earnings by 40 percent. Choose a full-day experience with instruction that ultimately puts the employee behind the wheel. You’ll be the best boss ever after giving this hard-earned gift.

If you’re still wondering if this is the best idea, know that the companies and racetracks that offer these V8 experiences take safety seriously. Each car comes complete with roll cages, safety harness, race seats and click tyres. Your loved one or employee also will get a full race suit and helmet to wear.

Search for “V8 race” or “V8 experience” if you do decide to give this gift. Such searches bring back the websites of companies that sell these gifts for the racetracks, often at a discount. This will save you from hitting each racetrack’s website on your own.

View all Claire McCloud's articles

About the Author:
Claire McCloud writes about gift giving and entertaining for a variety of publications in Australia. She recently purchased a V8 Experience for her dad, and he has yet to stop talking about it. Next month, her ongoing “Best Gifts Ever” series will offer suggestions on the best spa packages to give.