Renee Trains with the Richard Petty Driving Experience 

Our driver, Renee recently spent several days at Phoenix International Raceway (Phoenix, AZ) training as a driving instructor for the Richard Petty Driving Experience (RPDE).

RPDE is a motorsports entertainment experience that operates at approximately 23 different locations across the United States. RPDE offers ‘ride-alongs’ in two-seater stock cars – as well as several different levels of driving programs in NASCAR Nextel Cup-style cars.

Renee, who traveled with close friend and west coast racer Sara Senske, explained the procedure: “We went out to Phoenix to see what instructing would be all about. In the process, we learned about all aspects of their operations and were quite impressed with the professional level at which their programs are run,” she described.

 As you might know, in addition to her full-time position with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Apprenticeship Program, Renee has been working as a ‘Ride and Drive’ instructor for the past several years. She uses the funds generated by such work to support her team’s racing efforts.

 “In addition to the monetary gains from this line of employment, this particular work interests me because of the on-track experience in heavy, full-fendered cars,” rationalized Renee. “RPDE operates at just about every – if not all – tracks where NASCAR’s big three Series compete. As an Instructor, I’m hoping for the opportunity to get some track time at places like Bristol and Darlington – places I’ve never competed at, but would like to.” 

For information on an RPDE program, please visit www.1800bepetty.com. In the meantime, we’ll keep you updated on Renee’s schedule.