Digger Racing Itinerary
The JCB digger racing experience day takes place at Diggerland theme parks around the country. They usually take place on one or two weekend dates per month usually between April and September. Dates differ for each Diggerland site and are based on seasonality and demand.
Our event started at 10.30am and we got there half an hour prior to this for piece of mind. It transpired that most other participants thought the same!
At 10.30am we walked over to the racing area and began the experience.
Safety Brief
The day started with a very quick safety brief with the overall message being have a good time but don't see red mist (be competitive but don't get too competitive).
We were shown the course before splitting down into three groups and huddled around each instructor inside the cab who showed us the main controls.
We then re-grouped and were shown the course again before the racing began.
Laps
Normally you should expect two laps. The first lap is going to feel odd as you get used to the massive JCB digger. The instructor gives a quick one-on-one instruction and answers any questions you may have.
Then it's all set, on your marks, get set and go! You get to drive your own JCB around the track competing with other guests on the day to see who can do it the fastest or with the most style!
Everyone gets a go before the second lap is raced, again in the same manner. This time the instructors are more concerned with helping you win so will give you bits of advice to help you perform better.
Our group was relatively small compared to normal and as such, we each got an extra lap. There's no way to determine if this will happen on the day you arrive so go not expecting it and consider it a perk if it does.
Final Heat
Whilst this all about having a great once-in-a-lifetime experience driving a real life, full size JCB 3CX, there's also a competitive element too. No one is quite clear on the scoring but generally you get points for speed, grace and wheelies (we saw at least two wheels off the ground a few times!).
The top scoring three are then put together in a final heat. Given that these are typically the fastest racers, expect a close final!
Digger Dancing
Whilst the scores were added up we were treated to a couple of moves from a Digger Dancing troupe team member. He showed us exactly the kind of gradients the JCB 3CX could be safely subjected to.
Whilst racing in the cab we felt that we were pushing the boundaries of machine tolerance but this display confirmed we were nowhere near them!