Zoom! Race-car ride-along at the Walt Disney World Speedway

The Walt Disney World Speedway on Saturday was the site of my first-ever experience in a race car. I zipped around that track three times at speeds that can zoom up to 140 mph. My stomach also, apparently, made the trip — just not with my brain.

Kidding!

And, Disney annual passholders, don’t forget that the ride-along experience is free until March 31. Just show up with your pass and they will fit you in.

One of the most amazing things about the experience was the disconnect between my brain and the rest of my body (not the first time that has happened).  I knew I was going really fast, I could feel it in my legs. Yet the trees along the track didn’t seem to be flying by too quickly. However, the trees and objects far in the distance were moving out of my field of vision WAY too fast. A totally cool sensation.

The helmet, braces and strapping into the vehicle made the danger seem real, but my driver, besides being friendly, was so confident that I never felt any fear.

Frankly, it was over all too quick. (Well, what do you expect at speeds like that!) I would gladly have gone around three or four more times, but it was time to clamber out of the window — just like you see at the races on TV.

Yes, I bought the official photo/plaque and even a $5 T-shirt, so Disney got some money out of the “free” experience. But it’s something I want to remember!

The Walt Disney World  Speedway, affiliated with the Richard Petty Driving Experience, is next door to the Magic Kingdom parking lot at Disney’s Transportation & Ticket Center. Drive to the TTC, and follow the signs to the speedway.

Another fun tip: You can see the slow-w-w-w-w-moving cars and buses approaching the parking lot as you fly around that track.