Temperatures are beginning to drop and the infamous Buffalo weather is clearly on its way. Most outdoor activities are closing up for the approaching winter season but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop.
Go-karts, normally an outdoor activity, have taken the drive indoors in response to the short summer season, allowing a fresh option for dates, blowing off steam and clean competitive fun.
"I've been indoor go-kart racing a couple of times and loved it," said Claudia Neba, a senior communication major. "The only bad thing is the ugly hairnets and helmets they make you wear."
According to Winston Duke, a senior theater major, racing indoors reminds him of his childhood days and his dreams of growing up to be like Speed Racer.
Go-karting gives people a chance to drive the way they really want to on the road, but ensures safety by keeping it on the track, Neba said.
"It's fun to go with friends and crash into each other even though they tell you not to," said Evan Kazer, a senior accounting major. "It always reminds me of playing Mario Kart except in real life, so it's that much better."
According to Duke, it might not be the most romantic setting, but it's a good place to take a date.
"It's a little pricey to go all the time but its fun to go every once and while, either on dates or a random Friday night out," Duke said.
According to Neba, the go-kart track isn't really the best place for a first date but is a good option down the road
AJ's Grand Prix, a local indoor go-kart track, is located on Niagara Falls Boulevard in Tonawanda. According to Ali Hadjeasgari, managing partner, AJ's Grand Prix holds a one-quarter mile track, arcade games, food and beverages.
"A lot of UB students come to race and we actually sponsored a formula car for the engineering department; we like to help out as much as possible," Hadjeasgari said. "For UB students only, we offer the deluxe membership for half the price."
According to Hadjeasgari, each kart has its very own timing system. Drivers usually go for about 17 to 23 laps around the track and when the race has finished, drivers receive their times for each lap.
"The races are done in true grand prix style. Whoever is in first or last, in the end doesn't matter; the times are the most important part," Hadjeasgari said. "It is all in fun but it gets competitive, even if you come in just for a good time you leave a competitor." To keep the competitive nature at a healthy and safe level, Hadjeasgari makes sure that all drivers receive preliminary safety guidelines and instructions.
"There are two different karts: Junior karts for ages 10 to 14 years old and adult karts for 15 years old and up," Hadjeasgari said. "The karts go 40 mph so we make sure that everyone knows the importance and reasoning for the head brace and other safety equipment."
According to Hadjeasgari, all drivers are briefed on rules, such as no bumping or hitting other drivers. There is also information on the kart, including proper driving instructions.
"Go-karting is supposed to be competitive. That's the best part," Neba said. "As long as you are a good sport about it all, it's fun"
According to Hadjeasgari, the karts only go 40 mph, but it feels like 100 mph inside, further adding to the thrill and excitement of being behind the wheel.
"I think that students like it so much because it's a good way to take out frustrations; it relieves a lot of stress," Hadjeasgari said.
Prices vary whether patrons are walk-ins or members. Non-members can expect to pay $20 per race while members who pay an annual fee can race for less.
AJ's Grand Prix is open everyday and further prices, schedules, and specials are posted on the Web site, www.ajsgrandprix.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
