Jennifer Rich-Neal
Published: October 25, 2006
Halloween at PJC provided a different type of experience for thrill seekers. On Tuesday, Student Leadership and Activities presented us with a virtual NASCAR racing experience.
The NASCAR simulator was an actual Jeff Gordon, # 24 DuPont race car. The car was revamped after it was purchased by Kramer Entertainment. Kramer Entertainment is a Grand Rapids based company specializing in “high-tech entertainment and attractions.”
“Kramer owns many different types of simulators, including another NASCAR, a roller coaster simulator, flight simulator, and a motion theater,” Harry Lowden, Kramer show manager, said.
Kramer Entertainment purchased the body of the NASCAR that made an appearance at PJC directly from Jeff Gordon for $80,000. With pricey additions, such as hydraulics, speakers, and a computer system, the final product was born.
“[The simulator is] pretty much a $300,000 video game,” Lowden said. “The drivers get a taste of the racing experience with surround sound and wind blowing in their hair.”
As the ride is in motion, one could watch the car shift and move. Observers outside of the car could see the experience through the eyes of the driver on a nearby television monitor. Drivers can choose their course and try to keep control of the vehicle in a virtual racing situation.
The appeal of the simulator attracted many students to try what it had to offer. Willie Jones, business major, excitedly awaited his chance to get into the driver’s seat.
“Anything reckless and I’m ready,” Jones said. “I like speed. I like fun. And I’m a video game fanatic.”
The simulation lasted about five minutes. After an intense ride, Jones said the experience was “a whole lot of fun!”