LA Racing is simply the best.. Starting with Ozzie, David and the many it takes to get you onto the track, they are AWESOME. If you like racing, speed and are responsible, you can take on 20 laps, 40 corners and have the time of your life. Congrats to LA Racing for having a top level company who understand what it takes to be a responsible racer. I look forward to my next visit, and recommend to everyone to to give it a try. read more

Amazing experience, very professional, super fun, absolutely coming back, instructional teacher is awesome and hilarious, overall awesome experience, make sure you listen in the training and while you are driving they always know best read more

I'm going to be as transparent as I possibly can be here. I definitely took a lot from this experience, and do have a newfound respect for NASCAR drivers and what they do. I learned a lot about the track and the way stock cars handle. I'm giving this 2 stars for a couple of reasons however. People on this page have complained about having to pay the 89 dollar insurance prior to racing. It's insurance, no one wants to pay it, I get it. I sure as hell did not want to pay full price for a stock car. My fiancé bought me the pass initially and kindly paid the insurance as well. Now I don't care about having to pay it. What really gets me is that it is not clearly advertised on their website that you will have to pay it. You have to dig into the "policies" section of the page to even see the fine print. At 400 dollars I would expect something like this to be inclusive. I am very not happy with that aspect. It is a dishonest way to run a business and it just makes it easier to bully unsuspecting customers into putting more money into the business. If insurance was so important to you and your company to preserve your vehicles, change the price online 488 to include everything and not blindside people. My last complaint comes from myself as a driver, which is where I want to be very transparent. I work in car collisions for a living. I eat, breathe and sleep car collisions. This being said, I've never driven a stock car or been on a track before. I really wanted to get a feel for this car before I get overzealous and run into the wall and pay 2500 dollars. It really took me a bit to see how the car accelerated and handled coming out of the center of the track. However the 3 others in my group were obviously more experienced on a track and were flying right as they told us to. Now I'm all for the fact that they don't want to slow down drivers that are wanting to go fast, I get it. They paid the ridiculous amount of money that we did as well. But by the time I was even comfortable to accelerate harder, I was constantly being told by the spotters to drop down to the inside line so the others could pass. I could never maintain a good pace after I got used to the car due to that. This was pretty disappointing for me. They obviously encourage single person improvement rather than the experience of the group as a whole. Overall, I learned a lot at this facility. I left with a new respect for what these racers have to endure. That's why I'm at least giving 2 stars. My issue is with the way this business model is set up, seemingly in a way to get the most out of someone with little effort on their part. read more

Don't waste your time or money!! One hour class from a want to be auctioneer who talks so fast you can barely understand him. Then comes in guy number two for the last five minutes just to clarify the fast talking auctioneer . Except this guy has a mush mouth, and we could barely understand him. Ok, fair enough they know we're beginners, right? Wrong!! Now to the "racing", One unprofessional spotter for two cars, only four cars on the track should be simple. I found out I was doing something wrong without warning by getting kicked off the track in the same manner user Josh C did. (8 out of 20 laps) Watch his video from 7months ago. It's a first time for us, adrenaline is going, nerves plays apart but nobody was in danger, not at the slow rate of speed we were going. Again no warnings just removed. Then the young unprofessional spotter and his laughing condescending ways tells me what I did wrong when was at the "principals office". I believe they find any little thing you did wrong to take you off the track without warning to save money, save fuel, and have more profit because you might have gotten a discount deal on Groupon or some other discounted coupon. I was in no danger of "crashing the race car"! Believe me I don't want to crash anymore than they would want me to. I would never do this again, Not with this company they treat you like a child. read more

As you can see from my other reviews on Yelp, I don't review often and I usually have good things to say, as I am not a negative person, but I needed to share my frustration with LA Racing. I bought a 20 lap experience for my boyfriend's birthday, as driving a race car was something he always wanted to do. They encourage you to go fast and also respect the car (of course), to not illegally pass, etc., which is all fine. My boyfriend soaked in all the information and was excited to drive. On his eleventh lap, they turned on the caution lights and instructed all of the drivers to pull out to the sides more on the straightaways. He did that and his spotter said he did a good job. Then, right after saying he did a good job, they pulled a red flag and removed him from the track. My boyfriend was completely confused as he had been trying to do everything his spotter said (which was not much instruction, unfortunately). Everyone in the stands with me was confused; even the person who picked him up in the golf cart said he didn't know why he was being taken off the course. His spotter said that my boyfriend "didn't do what he said to do." First - IF that is true - where's the learning curve (so long as he doesn't break the rules of course)? Second - He was doing exactly what the spotter said to do! Third - Seriously? The spotter could have just made himself more clear. My boyfriend was trying to do it perfectly and learn everything he could. He was eager to listen. He was not some irresponsible driver disregarding the guidelines, spotter's directions, or disrespecting the car/track. I suspect some overzealous power tripping on the part of the spotter. Case in point - the spotter never said, "You endangered yourself and others in such and such way," or, "You took an illegal pass," or anything concrete for that matter. It was just: "You didn't do what I said." Again, if that even were the case - maybe the spotter was misunderstood the first time through those ear buds, or maybe he didn't make himself clear, but probably he just has control issues. More evidence supporting that is the fact that someone else got kicked off the track right after my boyfriend. I don't know for sure if that driver did actually break a rule (he certainly could have), but my boyfriend did not. And he, being a respectable gentleman, calmly said goodbye and left, and I held my tongue even though I was very upset. The unfortunate end result of this is that we were SO excited to enjoy this experience, but it turned out to be a huge let down which is very much a shame. Someone from the business may comment on my post, but I think maybe they should take pause and think about if maybe that spotter might have indeed been a bit overzealous. Many drivers aren't perfect for sure, but neither are all spotters on every occasion. Everyone makes mistakes, and I think they really did this time. read more

As someone who grew up watching local racing, there is one word for this experience...awesome! Three simple questions: Do you want to get a taste of short track racing at the country's best short track without mortgaging your house to buy a race car? If you ansered "yes," then get your online coupon and head over to LA RAcing Experience! Do you want to limit you damage liability to $2500 in case you really screw up? "Yes?" Buy insurance. Do you want an in car video of this experience? "Yes?" Then buy a DVD for $99 or a youtube link for $79. I also recommend having someone take a video of you from the stands like my wife did. Read through the four and five star reviews, they explain things better than I can. To address a few of the criticisms here: I knew going in I was going to buy insurance. Wanna know how I knew? Because my Travelzoo voucher said there was available insurance, the LA Racing Experience Race Pass said there would be insurance available, and their policy page on their website said it was $89 for $2500 deductable insurance. No bait and switch here! I have no idea if they do any high stress sales pitches if you don't get it, but if you think about everything you are getting for your $150 coupon, it's not hard to realize they aren't going to just happily pay for whatever damage you do. These cars handle very well, and it's up to you to decide to buy insurance...for me it was well worth it. Some people say these aren't real "nascars"...shows how little they know. These are the same type of cars run by hundreds of racecar drivers every week at NASCAR sanctioned race tracks. They're basically what is usually called late models or sportsman cars. I was told off the bat that they had 450 HP engines, nobody that worked there the day I went ever said 500-550 as other people reported. They are not Sprint Cup cars, which you should be grateful for since nobody trying to get discount tickets for a racing experience should be driving an 800 HP, 3400 lb cup car worth several hundred thousand dollars! They are not the Nationwide cars, either, as they would still be too powerful, heavy, and expensive for beginners. The cars at LA Racing Experience are a lot more driveable and better suited to Irwindale Speedway than Cup cars are...if you're even thinking about this school, you would not be able to handle the power and weight of a Cup car. By the way, "NASCAR" is the name of the organization the puts on races, it's not a type of car;although the cars in the various divisions do share some characteristics. It's in caps because it's an acronym...National Association of Stock Car Automobile Racing. Calling a car a "nascar" is like calling a football an NFL...would you say to your buddies, "hey, let's go throw an NFL around in the backyard"? Learn a little bit about the thing you are thinking about driving. Everybody you watch racing in NASCAR event on TV started racing in less powerful, less expensive race cars...why would you even think they would offer the full-power versions to complete novices? Want to know your lap times? Have somebody video tape you. You're a novice and you will be slow, so it's not really fair to criticize the track for not timing you. Everybody there was very helpful and friendly. Somebody said you won't go over 80 mph on the straights. It might have felt that way, but video proves my AVERAGE time was 82 mph. With how slow I went in the turns, that had to be 100-110 on the straights, and that was only because I didn't push it nearly as deep as I will the next time I do this...and there will be a next time! This is a pretty small track, and the speeds you can reach in these cars is pretty good...a few seconds off what the weekly racers can do, but this is just an introduction to short track racing. I've done two different racing schools, this one and Drivetech at AAA Speedway in Fontana. They both basically worked the same way with the same type of cars, giving you a little classroom time, followed by some warm up laps, then your hot laps complete with passing, followed by a chance to buy your picture. If you want to have some fun learning a little on how to drive a stock car, this is probably the way you're going to do it, no matter where you go. (Never been to Mario Andretti's school, or any of the expensive road course schools, they probably do have significant differences in what yoou will experience. Whether the experiences there are better or worse, they won't be teaching you how to drive a stock car on a short track.) read more

Attended the Jan 2, 2016 3:30 PM class in Group 4. I've driven at LA Racing 3 other times and had pretty good experiences. Since I always wanted to drive "under the lights" I thought I'd go for it. It turned out not to be a good idea. Some background. In addition to this being my 4th time at LA Racing, I've driven a stock car at Charlotte Motor Speedway, California Speedway X 2, Las Vegas Speedway X 2, and Mesa Marin 1/2 mile (Bakersfield) X 2 for a total of over 400 laps. So, I'm not your average guy. I know how to handle a stock car, in a school type environment and know what to expect as far as how a car should drive. This last LA Racing experience was by far the worst I've had. As previous reviewers have mentioned the sales pitches for insurance and videos during the pre-race briefings get a little repetitive. I get it. It's a business. However, the constant reminders about Rule # 8, crashing the car and getting thrown off the track can be intimating to a first timer and make a person very cautious when they get on the track. You will here about their great safety record and they put 1400 students a month through the courses. Note: you don't wear a HANS device and there are no soft walls at Irwindale. The other reviewers mentioned wet/damp gloves and driving suits. I've experienced that since they do have only so many uniforms. My biggest concerns are the condition of the cars, conduct of the "spotters", condition of the track and the face shield on my helmet was severely scratched. I drove the #3 car and found the steering to be very sloppy. Coupled with the car being set up to drive "tight" it was very difficult to drive the line as instructed. The windshield on the car was also scratched along with the helmet visor and my vision was somewhat impaired. I think driving under the lights magnified the problem. The spotter was constantly talking to me and 1 other car. It got to the point of lecturing vs. spotting for safety/passing. I found that talking while your looking for your marks and going into the turns is very distracting, to me. The markings and lines on the track are very worn and are difficult to see, especially at night. During the briefing you are told to look for a certain sign on the back stretch as a point to lift off the gas for the turn 3. However, there is no clear reference point on the front stretch for turn 1. Your told to figure out your lift point. I guess the rumored closure of the track due to the sale of the property has contributed to what I've seen as a deterioration of the track and a less than good handling equipment. When I need my NASCAR fix I'll be going to other venues. You pay more, but the cars and overall experiences make it worth it. You do get what you pay for! read more

Although overall the experience was very fun, it wasn't perfect. They say that they pride theirselves on safety (David the Instructor - who repeated himself about 7 times during the hour long class) they did not cover anything about the fire suppression system (like seriously ?!), nor how to get out of the harness once you are strapped in , nor how to unlatch the window net - for a first time driver that could be very stressful and unnerving, not to mention those are all things needed to know if a life or death situation occurred. read more

Omg what a scam, i just got back from the la experience. Boy was it one. From the minute you walk in they tried to scare me into buying the 89 dollar insurance. I refused. Then when it was my turn to do my 20 laps the spotter was all over me and finally black flagged me 9 laps into the 20 laps. Its just a scam they told me to pull down so a car could pass which we have on our personal video. And I did !!! Then they told me I was done. At that point I was going to total the car on purpose but thought better. I had received this as a present from my wife last Christmas I feel bad for her because of the way it turned out. Thanks La Experience you really do a great job on scamming hard working people. I will be filling a complaint with the state if anyone wants to sign The complaint I will head it up. 9/23/12 read more

We have found ourselves talking more about the very repetitive fast talking insurance selling guy instead of the racing experience!! They put the fear of god into you about crashing the car and being taken into the enforcers office to pay $38000 if you don't buy the insurance. How many people have that line of credit??? Scheduling was a hassle; we were also first ones there and last ones to "race" I think that was no coincidence-our punishment since we didn't get the insurance!! read more

Just raced here this morning and the experience well exceeded my expectations. Like others who've posted here, I too had the Travelzoo coupon. It saved me a bunch of money but I would have paid the full price knowing what I know now. And the $89 for insurance is a drop in the bucket for the experience you get. I think the reviewers here giving LA Racing 1 star because they couldn't schedule a race are whiners that shouldn't be posting anything. You didn't experience the business and, yes, it is a little of a challenge to schedule your race but just don't stop trying and then post a negative review without ever stepping foot on the property. It's not fair to the business. But back to my experience - the cars are the real thing, the staff are very helpful and friendly and the smell of fuel, oil and rubber topped it all. I certainly have a new found respect for NASCAR drivers. Man, my arms sure are tired! read more

As others have pointed out this is really just a forum for an aggressive up -sell to insure their dated and slow "race cars" . About as much fun as turning off the AC, in a 89 grand Marquis and doing donuts in the parking lot read more

Went to Irwindale with my 17 year old son. They no longer allow under 18 drivers due to a high level of crashes, but let us go because we booked several month before. Being short and sweet, this experience is the real deal. No faux cars, no baby cruising around the track. You get in a 450-500 HP 2300 lb. stock car and, with the guidance of a coach on the radio, haul a$$ around the track!! Adrenaline rush may be the best I have ever had.... Many more thumbs up details I could convey in this review but in summary... VERY well run, absolutely AMAZING DAY! This is a bucket list category experience and worth every dime. Thank you LA Racing!!! read more

Just came back from watching my son & daughter do their 20 laps. Both nervous before they got behind the wheel and super pumped when they were done. So pumped up that as soon as they were back in the office they paid for another 20 laps (for another day). I think they liked it!!!!!! For first timers like we were let me tell you how it goes. The entrance to the LA Race side was a little hidden for us. We followed the driving directions to turn into Speedway Drive which was wrong because they were having a used car sale going on and the lot where you do park, further down Live Oak, and where you register was hidden by semi's driving out. They told us the class would be an hour and it was more like 45 min.s. After class, drivers sit in the grandstand and wait while the group before them does their drive (unless your in the first group to drive). About 10 min before the group driving ends, they call the next group and have them suit up (helmet, jacket & pants, (slightly padded), then they sit in the stands again til the drivers are done. They drive them out to the cars in little golf carts. It doesn't take long before all four cars are on the track. A couple of practice laps to get a feel for the car then off they go. They do really scare you into buying their insurance for $89.00 each driver. Before we arrived I had told my family about what other reviews said that you really don't need to pay the additional $$$, but they do a great job of getting into the driver's psyhic-y (head) !!! A man took my son and daughter into another room and gave them a talk about old ladies crashing, and cars getting totaled, how much you'd pay if you wreck the car, etc. By the end of the talk, they paid the $$$. I'm not a racing fan, but this did give me a better perspective and MORE respect for actual race drivers. This place could use a re-do, make the place inviting and fix it up a little to make it look "fun". Has so much potential, but I guess who ever owns it is not in the "entertainment business". I kinda agree with Anthony W.'s review, where he says they do as little as possible to make the most $$$. The main take from this day was my family enjoyed their driving experience and they'll be going back one more time. read more

A MISERABLE EXPERIENCE When you read this review keep in mind three things: 1. It was restated by both course instructors (Doug and Ozzie) that during the first 5 to 7 laps the driver should get used to the car and track and not go full speed, especially in the turns. 2. The spotter (the person giving you instructions through a headset in your helmet) can talk to the driver, but the driver has NO WAY to respond (the communication is one-way only: spotter to driver). 3. There is no speedometer in the car (you have NO idea how fast/slow you are driving). Here's a play-by-play: - Everything fine during the initial laps under the yellow caution light. - First lap under the green light went smoothly, and I was thrilled with the increased speed, even though I wasn't full-out yet as instructed by Doug (great teacher) in the training class. He repeated several times that "your first ten laps should never be as fast as your last ten." - On the second green lap the spotter directed me to move to the inside lane for a car to pass, and then to return to the outside lane. - The spotter then told me to "speed up" so I increased the speed with what I was comfortable with on such an early lap. Then the spotter literally shouted at me, "Speed up, speed up" as if I were doing something wrong. I did speed up, but apparently not enough to satisfy the spotter. He then shouted: "SURELY YOU MUST HAVE A DRIVER'S LICENSE!" This made me extremely nervous that I was doing something terribly wrong, especially because I had no idea what I was doing to elicit these bullying comments from the spotter. - The yellow caution light now begins flashing, so I reduce my speed as instructed in class. Doug stressed the absolute necessity to maintain an approximate speed of 25-30 MPH whenever the yellow caution light is blinking. - Instead he begins shouting again, "INCREASE YOUR SPEED; INCREASE YOUR SPEED." But I can't because the yellow caution light is still blinking. I am now very confused as to what to do with conflicting instructions from Doug and the spotter. The spotter continues shouting and berating me. ("You shouldn't even be driving on the streets; most people drive faster than you on surface streets.") - I am now so intimidated and insecure in my driving as a result of the spotter's continued bullying, that I am fearful that I may be putting the other driver's on the track in danger. So once again I follow Doug's instructions in class and pull off the track at the first exit. Every other employee I encountered at L.A.Speedway was very professional, very friendly and helpful. It's extremely unfortunate that this one spotter could so completely destroy one of my "bucket list" adventures that I had so been looking forward to for several months. When I spoke with Ozzie immediately after my "ride" explaining the abusive nature of the spotter, he said (and a friend was present when he said this): "That's not the first time I've heard this." Well then, that FIRST TIME should have been the LAST TIME. Ozzie offered to reschedule my pass, but my experience had been so tainted and my confidence so shaken by the spotter's inappropriate bullying and intimidation that I don't feel I could ever be comfortable on a race track again. Especially because I was so conscientious in following the instructions given in class, and I have no idea what I was "doing wrong." Following up with Ozzie was useless. After two weeks of follow-up e-mails asking for a response, I was finally told that after reviewing the video of my session (TWO WEEKS LATER) the reason I was having trouble was because I sitting too low in the seat to properly see the white line down the center of the track. That did NOT seem to be the problem from my vantage point. But if I indeed was sitting too low, wouldn't you think my pit crew professional (one assigned to each car/driver) would have noticed this immediately? It is the pit crew's responsibility to ensure that the drivers are securely strapped in and in correct position before they can enter the track. The problem was the abusive spotter. I asked for at least a partial refund, but was only offered tickets to see a race at the speedway. DO NOT waste your time or money on this "adventure." It seems to be an opportunity to obtain, as many other posts have mentioned, the constant up-sell of photos, videos, and discounted race passes. read more

I probably win the award for longest time to redeem a voucher from a discount site. My wife bought the 20-lap adventure voucher from Groupon a long time ago - like 4 years! I read the fine print then and knew they would push the insurance for $89. Scheduling was a nightmare. Limited availability, open slots didn't coincide with mine. I managed to schedule about 4 or 5 different date/times over 2+ years - but they continued to be cancelled (fire ash, low visibility, water flooding, etc.). I had just about given up when they called offering a few different date/times and waiving the "reactivation fee". Scheduled the 8am time and arrived about 7am. I was sure to be in the first group being so early, which was fine so I could return to San Diego and go to work. I had been against the $89 Insurance rider all along. I still feel it is a ripoff, but that is how we all react to insurance until it is needed. Either way, if you smash the car, they claim you are on the hook for the $89 insurance plus $2500 limited liability. Purchasing the limited liability insurance rider is simple, sign a form and pay with a credit card. Really not sure of the legality of that - or charging the driver for damage to the car but I opted to go ahead and buy it. The second person you meet is the instructor. They will verify you have a [valid] driver's license and push the insurance. The pitch is probably scripted, but in a nutshell, car has 450-500 hp to the rear wheels, weighs about 2200 lbs, your auto insurance carrier isn't going to cover a racecar not cleared for street use, or coverage from driving 100+ MPH, typical first time drivers get 100 - 130 mph and oh yeah ... a woman put the car into the wall [turns 1-2] this last Saturday night. The banter between employees about the "most recent wreck" really felt practiced and I believe it was part of the insurance up-sell. There is a huge difference between 100 MPH and 130 MPH by the way, and I dont' think most first time drivers hit that. I didn't. When buying the insurance you also have the option to buy a in-car DVD [way too pricey IMHO]. Skipping to the end, you have the option again to purchase the DVD (everyone is recorded) and of course a photo of you in the car. As mentioned, I was first there and was in Group 1 (4 people per group). None of the four had driven there previously. However Group 3 consisted of returning (2nd, 3rd or more) drivers. Ozzie, the principal, decided to move Group 3 to the front so they would warm up the cars. This made sense and the remaining 16 people got a good show of what ~20 second laps looked like. I was not pleased that instead of bumping group 3 to the front of the line and all other groups move down one he swapped groups 1 and 3. Minor point, but it meant I was there 30 minutes more than originally planned. I had terrible trouble hearing the spotter through the headphones. Ok, not hearing - understanding. If the channel was open and My car number wasn't the first direction called, I could hear him, but if the channel was opened and my car number was first out of his mouth it was cut off or clipped. Driving the car is a little intimidating. I've driven karts for decades. I've done some rally driving, and limited close course. The small oval is not true; the 1/2 curves are a different size then the 3/4 turns. I was low on one and high on the other consistently. Therefore I only got a lap or two where I could bring the speed up. Worse of all, I had some trouble finding a good position for my 6-foot frame and arms in the bucket seat so that I could hold the wheel. And you need to have a good hold on that wheel with your left hand. I wasn't the slowest out there. My spotter had me go low 2 or 3 times for another to pass and he also called out for me to pass at least one car as well. But according to my stats, I was not as fast as they led us to believe. My fastest sustained speed (for more than a second) was only 77 Mph. I had two bursts over 80 Mph and a very very brief momentary tick at about 95 Mph. At those speeds I was not yet comfortable enough with the car to believe it would stick on the curve. I therefore didn't pull the wheel hard enough left and consequently would end up riding too high through the curve. The spotter would helpfully point this out via the radio. More laps would give more familiarity and my driving and times would improve. When you are done, along with a video, picture, and a certificate you can buy "re-rides". Another 20 Lap Experience for $99. You can buy multiples (10 I think, I don't know exactly as I don't have a $1k to drop on more rides - especially if you pay $89 each time for the insurance. you can bring friends though. Summary: Glad I finally did it. Would love a lawyer to comment on the insurance aspect. Don't have disposable income to devote improving My short-track driving so won't do again. read more

Ok my sister bought this for my birthday present and I had a blast! Im an AVID Nascar fan and do also race online alot as well ,i.e Iracing ,and this was so cool im still smiling about it. To the guy who posted and said there were no stick shift transmissions, your totally wrong. My car (#78) was a 3 speed stick shift) We got there early about 8 am. we took the short school and it was really helpful. me and my sister were the 2nd group out. I led about 14 of 20 laps and took the checkers p1. Yes these cars are fast! Once you get into a rythm your pretty good. We were lucky in that after about 10 laps the guy behind me passed me without permission (big NoNo) so we went yellow then red. got to shut the car off and wait for them to pull him from the car, then we went green again. I bought the in car video so i have it all on tape. Evryone there from the teacher, to the spotter to the girls who get you geared up (very cute, btw) to the guy who helpd me at the car were really cool and professional. I did by the insurance just in case. I would so totally do this again! I recommend this to anyone who likes racing. Also the guy said these were not real Nascar cars. again wrong. these are Super Late Models, i cant believe he thought they would put him into a REAL 900 hp Cup car the first time on a track!lol these are plenty fast enought to learn and have fun. I plan on going again and my even take the driving school and get my Nascar license.If you take anything away from my review let it be this. If you are a race fan or know one, THIS IS THE GREATEST!! By the in car video, dont be cheap and dont be a bum. I can now show my freinds what happend and since my sister was on track too it shows how wrong she was about what she did and what i did, The 20 lap ontrack time goes like nothing so do yourslef a favor and go!! Hes a link to my video to give you an idea of how it is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54omuZWRl70&list=HL1333400943&feature=mh_lolz And BTW, I dont work for or know any of the people there so dont think this is comming from one of the employees or something O and one last thing, hydrate yourself before you go!! Drink lots of water because its hot as hell in that car and with all the gear on. read more

Not organized. You check in with the associate outside the door. She does not tell you who to see when you walk in. You walk in and there is a guy on the left 2 other associates standing around and a lady working at the front desk helping people. You check in where you think is the right place because there's no signs then the associate says did you see the gentleman over there. So my husband goes to him and he is so worried about showing you the video basically has you sign one form but doesn't explain any choices or any other form and says oh most people do t want to sign the other form. So my husband takes his form back to the front desk that the gentleman had him sign and the associate asks him if he is getting the insurance my husband says no. Then they sent us back to the first guy again. We basically walked out. Not thorough in explaining anything no direction when you have extra associates just standing around. Help people. read more

Can't give them 5 stars but they were close. Very friendly fun experience. Little nerve racking to not crash there cars so it takes some time to get used to the driving experience. Only issue I had was that the 2 people in my group had done this before and knew what to expect so they were good and I was stuck in the inside lane going slow. They should pair people by experience or if you've been there before them those people race together with others that have raced there before. Overall a fun experience. read more

I used my free pass today to enjoy the experience and it was an absolute blast. I took the car as fast as I good go...got to lap everyone at least twice...and this was my first time. They do a great job of putting fear in you and telling you...DON'T CRASH THE CAR. The training class is all about re-enforcing the rules and making sure you are focused while driving. It would have been even better if they used some actual live footage from the Go Pros installed in every car about what to do and showed examples of the good, the bad and the ugly. The spotters do a good job of telling you what to do and when. Once you get the car rocking and rolling things are coming fast and I definitely had fun with it. The only other thing that would have been nice was to have some information about how you did on each lap from a time or speed perspective. I would rather get that then a certificate. The spotter did a brief critique after the race as you are bringing the car in but your adrenalin is still rushing and so it gets a little lost. read more

Went back again this year for the voucher I bought the first time I drove it. This time, the class was looooong, so long that my friend and his son who came to watch me drive ended up having to leave before I even got started. We sat in the classroom for 1.5 hours! It wasn't like they told us any more useful info, a lot of it was actually really repetitive. I learned a lot more about the course the first time I went through this and it didn't last more than 45 minutes. Would have downgraded if it wasn't for the fact that this time, I actually got to drive a car (the CHP car) that gave me some wiggle room from the steering wheel to the chest. I guess not having driven it for almost a year, I wasn't used to the feeling of hurling off the course so I didn't get comfortable with full speed until the last 1/3 of the laps. My spotter said I had great speed but not as much control cuz I wasn't sticking to the line, my bad. Did some nice passes though. If you're a shorty like me, ask for the CHP car. read more

I was excited to do this experience, unfortunately it was not what I expected. I am about 5'6" and could barely reach the peddle. When I mentioned it to the person strapping me in, he said I was fine. Later I found out that pads/pillows are offered to shorter people. If you are short, ask for it!! Also, I am a newbie. There are spotters who give you directions in your ear. My spotter ignored me except to tell me to scoot over. I could hear him helping the other person and coaching him the whole time. I was almost completely ignored and received NO coaching. This is a new thing to me and I was counting on the spotter to do his job...this was not the case. read more

Got the groupon deal as a gift through from my girlfriend. I was really stoked to do this as it's been on my bucket list forever. The first turn off was being hit up for $89 insurance fee before the class even began which gives you a $2500 deductible and covers any damage past that. They say it's optional but then put the pressure on by telling you the horror stories of the people who put the car into the wall and left with a $10-$20-$30K credit card charge. I read the yelp reviews which said not to buy the insurance, but I was too scared not knowing any better so of course I bought it. Mistake. Listen to me. If you're above the age of 25 (you fear death), can successfully operate a car, and are willing to follow their rules, you WILL NOT need the insurance. DO NOT buy it. Trust me. A few more reasons this place gets a 2/5. I'm sure the instructor's demeanor / act appealed to some but to me it just came off as cheesy. His whole thing about remembering everyones name sounds real cool until he messes yours up and no one else in the class realizes he called you the wrong name. But what do I know I'm from the beach and didn't grow up watching NASCAR or hanging out at the local WALmart. I wanted to be coached by the spotters. You have no idea how fast to go into the corners. I mean they tell you to go full throttle until a certain part and then coast through the corners but if you do that it 100% feels like you're going to skid into the wall. Which I assume you aren't because the cars have racing tires, but I wasn't willing to test the limits and have to spend the $2500 deductible after I skidded into the wall. Let me repeat, I'm sure I could go twice as fast into the corners but was scared I'd slide into the wall. Because I was scared to test the limits...the insurance not necessary. Finally, you have no way of seeing how good you are at driving, so if you go with a group, no one gets bragging rights. They should at least either hit you with a radar gun to see how fast you're going--or alternatively time your laps so you can see how you progressed or what? I went to a race car driving class and can't tell my friends how fast I drove? Lame! Finally, the entire time they were hitting you up for more money. $12 for the in car photo, $80 for the gopro video (which was super lame cuz I brought my own gopro and they would not let me use it) and $100 for additional 20-lap passes. The "class" definitely turned into a sales pitch at one point when the big boss "Ozzy" (who sounded way too much like Danny Glover) came in at the end to go over the rules one last time, and then to try to sell the class on package and corporate deals. But all in all a good experience and glad I did it. read more

Would not do this again at Irwindale. Only a 1/2 mile track, the spotters communication is really poor, slow drivers ruin the experience for faster drivers. The cars are good but the 'training' on how to really drive the car is poor. Try Fontana instead, I plan on doing Fontana. read more

Save your money!!! Very disappointing. 2 out of the 4 cars broke down, the race was constantly being interrupted with red and yellow flags. The car that my son finally got to drive backfired the entire time! And yes he knows how to drive a manual very well. They charge $89 for insurance but they don't even let you go fast enough to pass any cars. We drove faster on the freeway getting there. We had a 9am appointment and didn't even get on the track until 11:30!!! $150+89+99 (video you'll get in 4 weeks) = not worth it!!!!! read more

I went there Friday 01/20/11 with my brother. Great deal $149 off of living social for the adventure 20. Be prompt, they will close the classroom door on you if your late. As soon as you walk in, you meet the Instructor, he was very aggressive about the drivers getting the insurance $89 for a $2500 deductible. I went ahead and bought it.They also offer $99 for the in-car video package, which i didn't buy. I think they should do a refund on the insurance if you don't crash or do any damage to the NASCAR stock car. Anyways, The experience was great but brief. I spent about a total of 25 mins from getting on the golf cart down to the track after suiting up, getting into the NASCAR stock truck (i wanted #42 car i was a Lil too tall for it), driving about 25 laps( it goes by fast since its a small track), getting out of the vehicle and driving back to the stands. my fastest lap time was about 26 sec, i swore i was hitting 24 sec mark which was the fastest time by another driver in our group. Its great that they allow controlled passing but they really, Really, REALLY want you to stay in the center of the track for most of the time especially on the turns. But it does help out to avoid losing control of the car and crashing against the wall. I finished 2nd but overall was a great experience. Next time gonna do Adventure 40 and gradually get my license! read more

Received LA Racing as a gift and decided to use it before it expired. This is a review of the "Adventure 20." How it works is if you used a Groupon or Living Social, you have to register your order, after which you will be emailed an LA Racing "race pass" which is good for 1 year. I am not certain if it will be applied as a credit if the "race pass" expires. A few suggestions for those who are yet signed up for a driving date: - If you are prone to heat, schedule your drive on a date that is in the cooler months. Unless one enjoys wearing fleece lined pants + jacket + gloves + helmet in a car with no AC on a hot summer day. try to schedule it in the winter months. I went in August during one of the hottest days and it was uncomfortable. - Like others have stated here, try to arrive early to get signed in first. They send out 1 group of 4 drivers at a time, and it is about a 25-30 minute wait for each group. The instructor stated the grouping was a lottery, but I arrived last and was in the last group. About 45 minutes of classroom instruction, and didn't get into the car until 80 minutes afterwards. - If you are a germaphobe, you might want to think otherwise. The pants, jackets, gloves, and helmets are used throughout the day. They do spray down the helmet and gloves with antibacterial disinfectant spray, which should kill most disease transmitting virus/bacteria. But if you do not like wearing gloves and helmets that are moist (either from the spray and/or the previous drivers sweat) you might not enjoy the experience. The pants and jackets were dry at the time I went. Disposable hood socks are provided. - $89 insurance that is sold when you arrive. The instructor did not hard sell this at all and there was no pressure to purchase it. He stated previous examples of accidents and what could happen (mistake gas for brake and rear ending) but did not quote actual damage estimates. I purchased it because I did not know what to expect being the first time out there, but in hindsight, it was not necessary. If you have little to no track time, the cars can handle more than your driving abilities and comfort zone. - Transmissions: when I went, there were 4 cars. 2 automatics, 2 manuals. They did have other cars on the side, but I am not sure if they were auto or manual. They didn't ask what transmission you prefer until you're suiting up. For manual transmissions, they have you in 3rd gear throughout the race, so no shifting is required. - Cars: It's difficult to say how fast one is going since there is no speedometer. The instructor quoted 450-500hp to the wheels on a 2500 lb chassis. Given the no sound restriction exhaust, the narrow field of view within a "stock car, and the 5 point harness that straps you to the car, it does feel like it accelerates quickly and you're going fast on the straights. Driven the new Aventador and comparing the 2, the Aventador feels like it accelerates faster because upon full throttle, it pushes you back into the seat like those roller coasters that uses electromagnets to accelerate. I didn't feel anything like that under full throttle in the "stock car" on the straights. There are 2 "spotters", 1 spotter talks to 2 drivers through your one-way communication headset. He will tell you what to do. Basically, you try to follow the striped lines in the middle of the track on the turns as fast as you can/dare, but the spotter will let you know. I would give it 4 stars overall. All staff were very friendly, and there was no hard sell on anything; ie: insurance, in car video, photo of you in the stock car upon completion. read more

It was my first time. People who run it are very nice and professional. My friend was very late and they were able fit him in. This is a good experience. It's about driving fast, but it has little to do about racing because you are not in competition with others. They can make it much more fun and competitive by giving you statistics such as your top speed and fastest lap like go carting places. The video is expensive at $79. I got it, but do not recommend it. With the insurance and any insurance or warranty, it's about percentages. It would be interesting to ask what are the percentages of accidents they have. I would expect they are low, or they would lose their license. If you already are a careful driver with a good record, you're probably okay. It's $89 for 15 minutes of protection because that's how little you're out there. Overall, it's a good one time experience, but go without the video for sure. read more

Rapid Robert 6-8-11 FINALLY a racing experience that will let you go as FAST as you are capable and let you pass with no lead car, or instructor in the car like their competitors. It is you, the car, the track and pro instruction in your ear piece as you race. I have been to most of the other "racing schools" ......and this is by far the BEST ALL AROUND. YOU CAN GO AS SLOW OR AS FAST AS YOU WANT. Just tell the LA Racing staff what you prefer. They are very helpful and friendly....from the first phone call, to the check-in, drivers meeting, driver ready area and pro staff getting you in the car and giving top instruction as you blast around Toyota Speedway as fast as you are capable. No pressure...just friendly, professional guidance at your level. I told them I was advanced and was treated as such. I asked for race day instruction to prep me for my first ever race at Toyota Speedway Sat. Night. That is what I got. I also observed them handle the beginner and intermediate drivers with such understanding and care. I felt like I was among friends with the L.A. Racing staff. I was so impressed with the caring atmosphere that I stayed most of the day to watch and inspire the other drivers. They even had cold water and fruit at the track for participants to eat. There was freedom to roam, watch and listen.... for drivers and their guests. The restroom facilities are large and clean...NO PORTA POTTIES. The main building is air conditioned. Excellent after 40 laps of high speed adrenaline filled fun. There were men and women of all ages there. It was amazing to watch their staff handle the diversity with relative ease and and compassion. NO NEED TO GO FAR AWAY TO A BIG NAME HYPED TRACK AND GET FAR LESS FOR WAY MORE MONEY $$$. read more

This was an experience that everyone should try. Especially if your trying to make a transition into NASCAR Racing, this is the place to go in the Los Angeles area. A half mile track doing 120mph into the corner is hard to top on the fun meter. Definately will be doing this again soon, and recommend you do as well. read more

Had an absolute blast! The Classroom part was much more fun than I expected. Everyone was really nice. My spotter was great! He encouraged and guided us! Joseph who was the guy helping me in the car took a bunch of great pictures for us as I got in the car. I only remember Joseph's name though. The re-race packages are very good deal. Thanks LA Racing and Thanks to my daughters (Mo, Bit & Seppie) who gave this to me for Christmas. read more

I went yesterday with a friend and although she was little nervous about driving she agreed to do it. After we raced she said it was great and actually wanted to return. I thought it was incredible. The day was hot (97) and you have to put on a firesuit, as soon as you flip the switches and push the start button, the heat is all but forgotten. All you can think about is the fire breathing dragon under your ass and when can you hear the spotter saythose magic words; GREEN, GREEN, GREEN. This place is really run professionally with enough support staff to make you feel comfortable. I loved it so much i popped for 2 more 20 lap gigs before we left. I just want to close by suggesting to you to buy the insurance. I felt like it was worth every penny when I came out of turn 2 and got a little too aggresive and felt the rear end get loose. Not too much but enough to remind me to roll it on smoother. You should do this if you would like to experience a legal head rush at high speed. read more