Digger Racing Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I need to be to participate?
You need to be at least 17 years old. There is no stated maximum age but we were advised that Red Letter Days insurance (included in the price of the experience) would cover people up to the age of 79.
Do I need a driving licence to participate?
You need to hold a full UK driving licence for a car. You do not need any specialist licences but need to have passed the car driving test for the UK.
Is it just for men?
Of course not. Whilst there is a stereotype that this is a 'toys for big boys' event, it is definitely suitable for women too. Whilst the vast majority of guests were male, a couple of women were in our group when we visited.
It seems expensive. Is it good value for money?
Each brand new JCB 3CX costs around £55,000 and there were three used for our experience day. Add fuel, staff costs and insurance and you can quickly see where the cost comes from.
You do get two laps which equates to around 5 minutes drive time which might not feel a lot on paper but is plenty when you are actually racing. The entire experience does last around 4 hours and it is great fun watching other people trying to beat their competitors!
You also get park entrance to Diggerland (around £15 value) included in the experience so you can try out other types of JCB diggers over the course of the day.
Initially I must admit I felt it was quite expensive but having 'been there and done that' I would be happy paying this to go again.
The biggest thing I have driven is a tiny car. Will I be able to control the JCB 3CX?
If you can drive a car you can race a JCB 3CX. There's a knob on the steering wheel which makes steering it much easier. You can steer with one hand and thanks to the power steering and steering mechanism small turns of the wheel turn the JCB very easily and quickly.
As for power, there is an accelerator and brake pedal. Gears are controlled by a twist of the stalk on the left hand side. We started in second gear and twisted up to third for the long stretch before reducing back to second to complete the race.
It might seem scary thinking about controlling a JCB 3CX let alone racing one but let me assure you it is very easy. The first race is all about getting used to the machine with the second race being more competitive.
Will it be muddy?
This very much depends upon the weather before and during the experience. In wet seasons you are advised to take Wellington boots with you as it will be wet and boggy, as the race takes place on a mud track.
In dry weather you can get away with trainers. Just watch out for the dust blowing around as it did when we went.
Go in clothes you don't mind getting dirty (casual jeans are a good idea) and take a spare change of clothes just in-case you get muddy, wet or dirty. There are toilets on-site to change in if needs be.
Why should I buy this as a gift experience for someone?
JCB digger racing is an unusual gift experience and is more fun than a car driving experience. It is unique and definitely something your recipient will probably never have done before.
The gift is perfect for giving as a Christmas present or as a birthday present. If you are stuck for a father's day gift then JCB digger racing is perfect. It even makes a great yet unusual wedding anniversary gift as it lets husband and wife compete to find out who really is better in the relationship!
If you want a genuine once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be a memorable gift then look no further than a digger racing gift experience.