The first time I went go-karting, it was a proper race track, where we had to suit up in baggy full-sleeve overalls and wear helmets. I felt like Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher, so absurdly cool.
The karts were sleek with big tires and low seats. I had just landed inside my own Formula 1 dream. We had to line up along the starting line like a real car race. The misty, rainy air stilled. They waved the flag … and we were off. I drove fast, but there was someone else who was faster. That driver expertly manoeuvred the go-kart around everyone. That driver went so fast, one of the tires on the kart actually wore out.
I came in second, just behind Speedy Gonzales, but I managed to do a cool 360-degree drift at the end, which earned me applause from our spectators. My brother came in last and whinges about it still. He had to share a go-kart with my dad, which meant driving below the speed limit.
Drive has re-opened for private bookings at West Edmonton Mall. For now, you can only race members from your own household. So grab your masks, follow COVID rules and race to the finish line.