We hate to mention it in early November, but Christmas is coming. That means it's gift giving (and receiving) time, and if you're on the search for the perfect present for a petrolhead, then Ireland's premier race circuit could have the answer. Mondello Park has updated its range of circuit driving experiences, with the new Audi R8 Supercar Experience now added to its roster.
Experience it or drive it?
The latest addition to Mondello Park's fleet gives drivers the chance to experience the twists and turns of the Co. Kildare venue at the wheel of a genuine supercar while under the eye of the track's expert instructors. You won't be thrown in at the deep end with the V8, four-wheel-drive mid-engined supercar, though, with initial laps taken in a Volkswagen Golf GTI to familiarise yourself with the Mondello Park layout.
Are there other cars to try?
The addition of the R8 Experience complements Mondello Park's existing range of driving packages that are aimed at car fans of almost every age. The circuit selections include the Ferrari F430 Driving Experience, Porsche Cayman Driving Experience and the Formula Driving Experience, which features Formula Sheane single seaters that can accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than four seconds.
Beyond the track driving packages, there's a Drift Experience in a custom-built Nissan 350Z that has been set up to deliver the type of sideways action that the drift scene delivers.
Ireland's great history of rallying is also catered for at Mondello with the Rally Driving Experience. For this package, drivers get to tackle a mixed-surface course at the wheel of a rally-prepped Suzuki Swift, accompanied by an instructor for the full co-driver experience.
If you're feeling adventurous, then the Adrenaline Supercar Experience combines the Audi and Porsche packages, while the Ultimate Track Xperience sees participants take on the Audi, Ferrari, Porsche and Formula experiences, as well as the Drifting package.
Can I bring my teens?
Beyond the driving experiences, Mondello Park also has a professional simulator on site and the Early Drive Electrified by Opel experience for 13-17-year-olds that want a taste of driving before taking their test. The circuit also offers gift vouchers to go towards experience bookings.
Speaking at the launch of the R8 Experience, the managing director of Mondello Park, Roddy Greene, said: “We are excited to bring the R8 Supercar Experience to Mondello. It’s great to add this new car fuelled by a V8 engine along to the Ferrari, Porsche, Drift, Rally and single-seater experiences. There is something to offer everyone who enjoys cars or wants to try something new.”
How much does this all cost?
Mondello Park's driving experiences start from €249, and - aside from the Early Drive Electrified by Opel experience - all participants must be 18 years or older and hold a full driving licence. For more information, visit mondellopark.ie/driving-experiences/ where full terms and conditions can also be found.
Photography by Paddy McGrath