Testimonials
"very enjoyable day for all 4 racers
What about putting the times up though
It was 2 weeks ago we put in our massive effort
come on guy's"
andy moir, new plymouth, 21st February, 2009
"The day was cloudy, it was warm. Will the rain stay away?
So I could experience something I had never done in my life.
Something I had only dreamed of doing:
I was going racing in a real race on a real race track.
All the times I had seen Bathurst
I never dreamed it would really happen.
I could feel myself being in the seat like Greg Murphy and the like, others I had admired.
So off to the track I go with girlfriend and camera in hand.
Nervous as.
I was welcomed with opened arms by the lovely ladies in the office.
Then shown how to do it with a video.
Then off we went to the track.
Once there I was told how to do it.
All suited up with co-pilot beside me.
Off I went, 8 laps of pure adrenalin. I WAS DRIVING A REAL RACE CAR.
My Girlfriend took heaps of photos.
And to top it all off I got a photo with me on top of the podium.
Thank you everyone for a great experience.
"
Chris Pinkham, Hamilton, 25th January, 2009
"I had an absolutely awesome experience. Everyone involved made it an unforgetable time. What's more my family of spectators were able to join in the experience and all thoroughly enjoyed their day as well. "
John Dent, Hastings, 11th January, 2009
"Great gift for my Ford loving lady, she had a ball, am going to treat my daughter for her 18th, BUT, we feel a ladies leaderboard should be done, my lady liked to show off her name when we went to peoples places, but now she cant...BE FAIR!!!!....lol"
Ian Chatrles, Wellington, 1st January, 2009
"Hi Craig
Would just like to thank you and the team for what was a awesome day on Monday 27th, it was a very enjoyable experience and cant wait to come back, wouldve definately stayed for some more sessions if we didnt have jetboating to go to, jetboating all seemed a bit slow motion though!!
Everyone involved made it very enjoyable, was very helpful, answered any questions i had nicely and it was a very friendly atmosphere for everyone including the family, everyone keeps talking about going next time, it was defiantely the highlight of my weekend in Taupo, so would just like to say thanks for the most enjoyable day in a long time!!
Keep up the good work, looking forward to coming back for a whole day and get in some clean laps!!
Thanks"
Sam Robinson, Wellington, 25th November, 2008
"Awesome day, thanks guys. Very well run by an exceptional team. Would recommend this to anyone."
Dale Murfitt, Whakatane, 7th November, 2008
"THANK YOU VERY MUCH Craig, Charles, Baz, Lee and the Team for an absolutely fantastic afternoon. I purchased a V8 experience for my husband and father-in-law and they cannot stop raving about the great time they had. Even for myself and family who were merely spectators it was awesome. Absolute professionalism from beginning to end. I\'m sure I\'m in hubby\'s good books for life. The ideal gift for any speed-loving man (and his father)."
Kathryn Rollo, Rotorua, 12th October, 2008
"What a buzz for an old guy!
Thanks kids, a brilliant gift.
Thanks FCR, a great afternoon with a great team of people."
Paul Rive, Hamilton, 24th August, 2008
"Hi Craig/Jacki
Just a quick note to thank you for your help with the supply of car and drive around Taupo Mororsport Park that Debbie and Arthur Nicholson took up recently.
They had a great weekend in Taupo and enjoyed their time at the Track, their comment was that it was totally professional, and staff really enjoyed their jobs.
Debbie enjoyed her test run and Arthur was stocked to be able to drive (at speed), both had a great time, I wouldn't be surprised to see them back at the track some time.
They spent a couple of hours on the Lake after the drive and Debbie was more than rapped that she landed a trout, although just under size and had to go back.
APN Print Central (Waipukurau) managed to raise $10,000 for Child Cancer in our area and appreciate your support with the track use plus car and drive around the track.
If we can help with printing any time let me know, I am sure we can look after you.
Cheers
Bruce
"
Bruce Doran, BOP, 12th August, 2008
"Wow and totally awesome are two words that describe the experience of The Ultimate Challenge here at Taupo with Formula Challenge. Its one thing to watch the single seaters and V8s on TV but to actually experience the total driving package on a world class race track is a memory that will last forever. The whole team at Formula Challenge is absolutely professional in everything they do so that the racing experience is of the highest calibre. Everything is included from full safety briefings, introduction to the cars and track, kitting out of racing clothing, couple of hot laps with instructor to show the racing lines on track. Then it's into the race car for a whole lot of fun and pace. The certificates, photographs and data printouts on completion compliment the whole experience. There is nothing like the sound and power of the V8 at your control or the responsiveness and handling of the Formula Challenge single seater. If you are any sort of petrol head then head to Taupo for The Ultimate Challenge because it is an absolute MUST DO!! "
Kane Hunia, Tauranga, 16th June, 2008
"I had a blast in the Ford V8 yesterday. Have the picture up on the office wall and that has generated lots of interest - and surprise that this "old guy" could be a petrol-head. Won't be giving up my day job though!"
Earl Irving, Auckland, 9th June, 2008
"I really enjoyed taking the Single Seater challenge. It was so much fun, the staff were helpful and friendly, and I can't wait to do it again the next time I visit Taupo!
Checking the leaderboard for women, I think I even cracked it!"
Grace Tahir, Jakarta, Indonesia, 27th May, 2008
"Fantastic experience enjoyed by all - even spectators felt included. Any apprehension eased by competent staff. Can't wait to come back - soon I hope!"
Steve O'Malley, Hastings, 25th May, 2008
"What a great experience, very helpful and friendly staff. Great track and cars. Will be back for more soon. Thanks again."
Morne Olivier, Auckland, 10th March, 2008
"Absolute fun!"
John Sefton, Rotorua, 2nd March, 2008
"What a great day! I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive when I received it as my X-mas pressie, but what a blast! Friendly and helpful staff made for an unforgettable, well organised event. It was good to see plenty of women on track as well.
Cheers!
PS: Helmet cam video on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxaT9wvsejM"
Judy Grunewald, Wainuiomata, 15th January, 2008
"This was an exceptional experience. The most notable feature was the friendly excellent support from all those running the course. All the participants (myself included) seemed a little apprehensive to start with but the staff were fantastic. They were helpful and made was was a great experience exceptional. Could not fault what was a great day. "
Julian Stoddart, Taranaki, 9th January, 2008
"I was lucky to receive a \"Rookie\" package from my wife and kids for my 60th birthday present. I was a bit worried that I was going to make a total dick of myself, or that I wouldn\'t fit in the car [I\'m of generous proportions!] but all my fears were unfounded. I was made to feel very welcome right from the get go. The car was a tight fit, but that probably helped me to cope with the G forces. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, even though I felt a wee bit queasy through the left right left corners onto pit straight. I was very pleased with the improvements I made to my times during the day. If you get the chance - DO IT. Cheers, Nigel"
Nigel, Tauranga, 5th January, 2008
"Excellent course, the instructors were keen to help reduce our laptimes and offered great advice whenever possible. Very well organized. Will be back one day for sure!"
Chris Blades, New Plymouth, 24th December, 2007
"WOW what a great day. I did the ultimate motorsport, V8 and single seater and it is without doubt the most fun i have ever had with my clothes on. The whole team were fantastic. From the moment i arrived i was treated to the best customer service i have ever encountered in the 7 years that i have lived in N.Z.( there are a lot on companies that could learn a great deal from these guys. ) Well done to every member of staff, you all made me feel very welcome and you made my day. thank you very much. i will certainly be doing this again. Jim Haldane. "
Jim Haldane, Hamilton nz, 24th December, 2007
"The nerves kicked in as soon as I was holding a helmet, but once on the track I began to let loose and absolutely loved it. If you have a friend/loved one who even has a passing interest in cars, he/she will love this. I am hooked and want more. Now I am saving to return to complete the track again, but this time without the nerves! Great stuff guys, thanks for a truly amazing experience. Photos at http://blog.xsive.co.nz/archives/259"
Campbell Anderson, Auckland, 16th December, 2007
"To the team of Formula Challenge,
I would like to thank you all for the great day I had last Saturday.I had a lot of fun, and only wish I did this a lot earlier. Like all good things in life my time there went to fast. It was just like you where getting started and then it was all over. Not to sure who had the biggest smile at the end of the day though. As my son and daughter enjoyed there lap around the track. They were impress on how well the car stayed on the track as well as the speed.
Some feed back to your form:- Booking process, Welcome and facility presentation quality, Tuition, Car presentation, Staff hospitality, The driving Experience, Certificate presentation. For me I feel this needs to marked from Very good to Excellent. Very hard to fault in my opinion. I would go as far to say that a lot of businesses could learn a lot from you, on how your team worked to ensure everything happens when it should and attention to detail on behalf of the staff.
If one could change / add to the already demanding program. This would be to add another set of laps in. This because I felt that after you had done your first run you could tell them where they went wrong so that they try to improve from there first attempt.
So once again Thank You very much for this experience. And a special thanks to Pita for showing my family and I around when we arrived and I think it was Craig for being a very brave co-pilot in the Holden V8.
Thank You.
Xavier Sharp.
"
Xavier Sharp, NZ, 4th December, 2007
"Hi Craig, Charles and the team.
Just wanted to say thank you, very much for the wonderfully well organised day, on the 10th November 2007 with the exide team. I am still re living my experience on the track, that day, it was such a buzz,would love to do again someday.First time on the circuit or even in a racing car, for that matter, thank you so much the event was truely the most awesome experience ever.
I can't wait to do it all again."
Lesley Rose, Albany Auckland, 15th November, 2007
"Brilliant fun - well organised - can't wait to go back !!!"
Nick Orwin, Auckland, 24th October, 2007
"Hi Craig and Charles,
I just wanted to say a big thank-you from Michael and I for a great day yesterday. The Formula Challenge cars are fantastic and I am sure we will be returning for another go in the near future. My brother has already had plenty of interest in his office and we both would love an opportunity to improve the times and get to know the cars with a couple of sessions at least.
I thought the organization was excellent and your staff are doing a very good job.
Thanks again to both of you for a great day.
Cheers.
Russell.
"
Russel Bach, Auckland, 18th October, 2007
"I had an awesome ultimate driving experience. The guys were very professional, had great service & were really friendly. A great time was had. Thanks.
"
Matthew Ducros, Gisborne, 17th October, 2007
"A great experience - well organised and safe. I was the first one to spin out!"
Lloyd Hasson, Wellington, 2nd October, 2007
"Hi there just a note to say 3 years ago i did a drive day with you guys. it was a fantastic day and brought my driving skills up alot more than they were, it helped me with my karting and now as i step into a pro 7 car i am sure that it will help me with that too. to any one that does one of these days you will not be disopointed if i had the money to race these cars in a season i would they are just great cheers guys."
david yeo, whangarei, 18th August, 2007
"We had a great day, thought the total operation was as professional as it could get, all the staff were great at both the jobs they were doing and also just plain nice people who obviously like what they do.
Track 2 was perfect, we enjoyed the dry session better than the wet.
Cars I thought were perfect and mixed difficulty and actually ability to drive.
The only issue is it all came to an end to quickly, but I suppose we were better off than those that only have one session.
I will be back as I want to get onto your leader board.
All the best
Ken Pascoe
"
Ken Pascoe, Waihekei Island, 17th August, 2007
"hello there it was the best day the staff were so good in helping me get the best lap time. Thanks to the mechanic for the help he gave me to get to that time thanks"
spud dups, nz, 24th July, 2007
"The F Challenge hot laps were a B\'Day gift from my lovely wife. Bless her!!! She upgraded me to the V8s and my coach/co-driver geoff??? was the coolest young dude I\'ve come across. I would never have ridden shotgun with me driving, knowing what I know!! Quite probably this was the most memorable day of my moderately long life. Go the FC."
Colin Keightley, Waihi, 24th July, 2007
"What a great day - I am still buzzing about it a week later. I just cannot get over the amount of grip of the Formula Challenge Car. I am looking forward to one of my team winning this prize again so I can go again"
Bevan Dale, hamilton, 20th July, 2007
"Hi Craig
I would just like to thank you on behalf of my family for the great time Dad had on Saturday as his surprise birthday present. He just LOVED his drive in the V8 and he got out just buzzing. He reckoned it was a few hours before the adrenalin stopped pumping through is body! I won't print what he said when he got back in the car - but put it this way, it was all good!!!
We loved watching him enjoy it so much. You have a great business and the remaining male members of the family can't wait for it to be their turn.
Thanks again.
Kind regards
Kalena Finlayson"
Kalena Finlayson, NZ, 17th July, 2007
"we came up from wgtn for the v8 challange. Was such a awesome experience. The staff were excellent which really made the experience. unreal we will be back again. 7 laps should be changed to 10"
aaron harris, wellington, 16th July, 2007
"It was the best time ever. The V8 Holden rules the road and the Formula Challenge cars were awesome... Definitely would love to do it again. All the staff are beyond awesome.
Thanks for such a great day, even if the track was wet.
D"
Dharmesh Nanu, Auckland, 11th June, 2007
"I was brought a voucher for my Birthday in April. I did not know what to expect, but I had a great time - the laps do go too fast. I would do it again, and would like to bring some friends for a challenge."
Leonard Simpson, Auckland, 6th June, 2007
"Had such an awesome time... highly addictive! Thanks for a well run, professional and fun experience."
Rachael, Auckland, 6th June, 2007
"Great experience, good instructions and training. Highly recommended. Don't forget to update the leaderboard."
Geoff Guenole, Wellington, 31st May, 2007
"Wicked day, very well run, will be back to better my time, 10 laps went way to fast. "
Tony Watson, Taupo, 27th May, 2007
"Dear FC Team,
I've just attended a 2-session visit to Taupo for the Formula Challenge experience - a 40th Brithday present.
I really enjoyed the experience all round; and it was a great day out for my spectators/ contributors also. I had not been introduced to this motorsport class before, and was pleasantly surprised by the performance and competitiveness of the cars.
The training, equipment, location and general organisation of the event were all top class. A great experience for petrol-heads and back-seat-drivers alike - and a great option for those looking for a meaningful birthday/ anniversary present for someone, or just to treat themselves.
Keep up the good work,
Regards,
Rich. "
Richard Millican, West Auckland, 16th May, 2007
"Hi Charles & Craig,
We have just arrived home from a fantastic experience with your team. The Formula Challenge cars were amazing but it was not only the cars which has left such a positive impression on us but also the friendliness of your team, their professionalism and also how you went out of your way to include the supporters as part of the action/fun.
What an amazing day, we will absolutely be recommending this experience to all, and we'll be back soon no doubt about it!!
Cheers,
Glen Priest & Sally Tudhope"
Glen Priest & Sally Tudhope, Wellington, 14th May, 2007
"Hi Craig and the team,
Just wanted to let you know how much fun I had driving one of your Formula Challenge open wheelers. Although I was apprehensive about driving an open-wheeler (being a tin top enthusiast) on an unfamiliar track, and on a wet track that got wetter, I can only say it was great fun trying to keep the car on the straight and narrow, as well as trying to keep all that power under check (although I did have a couple of minor looses).
I've driven go-carts and V8 race experience cars at QLD Raceway, Eastern Creek and Adelaide Raceway in Aussie and your outfit is right up there with the best I've encountered in these experiences to date.
Look forward to returning and doing a drive on a dry track, when I'm sure I will greatly improve my times.
Onya guys, keep up the good work.
Cheers Phil"
Phil Redpath, Grafton, Australia, 10th May, 2007
"Hello Charles,
Id just like to thank-you, Craig & the rest of your staff for taking such
good care of myself & my fiance on Friday. Having flown in from Sydney
Australia specifically for this experience I was some what apprehensive
about what to expect, despite making a nuisance of myself by asking a
thousand questions via email before the trip. However I was pleasantly
re-assured by the exceptional state of your facilities, equipment &
proffesionalism.
Having only experienced hired 4 stroke go-karts prior to this, I was put at
ease by the detailed briefing & giuded lap of the circuit with Craig. Having
a blisteringly cold day (at least by Australian standards!) didn't help my
fiance nor me, but sheltering in the truck certainly did! The experience
itself was very satisfying & I think I've experienced just the closest many
of us mere mortals will get to the upper echelons of open wheeler
motorsport.
So thanks once again for your efforts on the day & I hope to one day return
& do better than I did. Maybe when the temperature climbs into the double
digits!
Yours Sincerely,
Daniel Antoine Gregoire
Sydney, Australia
"
Daniel Gregoire, Sydney, 30th April, 2007
"Good Morning Craig
Just a quick note to thank you and Charles and the rest of the FCR team for an awesome day yesterday. I had a blast. Will be back I’m sure in the future. Your clear instruction made things so much more enjoyable.
Once again thanks
"
Paul Terry, Auckland, 27th March, 2007
"I attended the Ultimate Driving Experience yesterday and just had to send you an email to thank you for such an amazing day. Having only previously done go-karting, I had no idea what to expect from track racing. The V8 supercar was great fun to drive and the feedback you got from it was incredible, making it easy for an amateur like myself to feel the limits of the car's grip. As for the Formula Challenge car, well, it was unlike anything I'd ever driven. The car had amazing acceleration and braking and levels of grip I couldn't believe. Unfortunately I pushed the car a little too hard round the final corner of my final lap and came to rest against the tyre wall. A rookie error, but one I vow never to make again!
I managed to get a lap time of 50.02, which I believe put me in the leaderboard and on your website.
Anyway, thanks again for a fantastic experience and one I will not forget for a long time. I have already recommended it to all my friends and am already sweet talking my fiance into getting me the Rookie experience for my birthday, so hopefully it won't be long before I'm back!
Ryan Ghisi
"
Ryan Ghsi, Auckland, 12th February, 2007
"What a buzz, fantastic fun and The technology really enhances the experience. Enables you to focus on areas to go faster. Loved it so much I came back with 3 friends for another fun day. "
Peter Whittington, Wellington, 10th January, 2007
"I BUZZED FOR DAYS AFTER,CRAIGS TUITION AND THE EXCELLENT SAFE CARS GAVE ME AN EXREIENCE NOT TO BE MISSED THANKS GUYS."
JOHN BARRETT, AUCKLAND, 18th December, 2006
"Absolutely outstanding. An awesome experiance from the time i arrived to the time i was forced to leave."
Stephen Nickalls, Pukekohe, 18th December, 2006
"Awesome fun! Just needed one more lap to break the record! I'll be back."
Gerad Taylor, Greytown, 18th December, 2006
"Had the best time of my life will defntliy recomend u to alot of people if was alosme nuthing culd have wiped the smile off my face wich im going to have 4 a long time cheerz craig great team of people and again had a blast
thanks craig and the team have a cold one on me"
Bruce Peachey, Taupo, 17th December, 2006
"Thank you Craig for a very safe and instructive day. It was a fabulous experience that surpassed my expectations. You stressed the importance of the 'line' and smooth driving and we certainly agree that those are the keys to success. Byron, Stephen and I have had the chance to compare results since and know how we will improve next time!"
Hal Pepper, Whangarei, 27th November, 2006
"Hi there Craig & the team.
A quick note to say thanks for the awesome time. While doin it on the dirt has been my preference, its damn nice to have a ball and not to have to scrape the clay off afterwards!
We totally recommend the experience and are already planning a four man Naki attack. Hopefully next time I'll get to play with the full horsepower and some front wing :-)
Thanks again, a great day.
Ian & Jenny
PS It took a while to find that middle pedal, I'm not used to using brakes!"
Ian Laird, New Plymouth, 24th November, 2006
"Hi Craig Jenny and the team thankyou again for a fantastic experience , I was a bit stuffed last night after driving home but this morning am ready to roll again and realism about what we achieved yesterday is starting to sink in , would love to come back and get corners 6 and 7 properly sorted and tidy up my act . thanks again for your help and advise all the best for the season "
Des Redgwell, Auckland, 24th November, 2006
"Fantastic day. Not the kind of thing you get to do every day, which is kind of a shame, because it's the most fun you can have with your clothes on!"
Dave Arthur, Wellington, 23rd November, 2006
"RICOH IT CHALLENGE 2006 - This is one of the best experiences I have had to date and one I very much intend to repeat and will recommend to all. The cars are awesome, the crew unsurpassed, the track firstclass. A huge thanks to all who made this day happen!"
Angela Jelaca, Wellington, 18th November, 2006
"Fantastic time great cars a dream come true!!!"
Anthony James, Auckland, 15th November, 2006
"Subject: RE: Emailing: RICOH IT CHALLENGE
Hi Craig
Thank you and your team for a brilliant day.
I thoroughly enjoyed the experienced and driven friends, colleagues and family mad with recounting the experience.
Your team did a superb job of organizing and running the event and making it a memorable occasion.
I wish you every success for the coming season
Regards
Keith Young
"
Keith Young, Auckland, 8th November, 2006
"Hi Craig
Just a quick email to say thanks for such a great day. Dennis has the best time and we will highly recommend you to our clients.
Kind regards, Vonnie
"
Vonnie, Taupo, 8th November, 2006 |
