On the occasion of the release of the event film Cars 2, the Walt Disney Company decided to offer children aged 7 to 12 an attraction like no other. On the esplanade of Lattre de Tassigny, near the avenue de la République, the most experienced had the opportunity to sign up for a go-kart race. Excitement and good humor were in the air, just like at EuroDisney.
It is ten o’clock. The go-kart track, set up on the esplanade of Lattre de Tassigny, near the Exhibition Palace, opens its doors. For the first time, the Disney Company is organizing an event outside the capital, thanks to the release of Cars 2.
And since the second installment of Flash McQueen’s adventures is a four-wheel story, what better way than to give 7 to 12-year-olds a motorized thrill? Their immense excitement during registration proves that go-karting is the perfect activity to entertain them.
Imposed safety rules
Yes, but here’s the thing: go-karting isn’t without risks. The general manager of the event, Yves Gilardo, warns, “For safety reasons, they must wear closed shoes, otherwise they can get their feet caught in the pedals.”
This is why the children are briefed before getting into the vehicles. “What’s the first thing to do when you enter a turn?” the instructor asks. Two boys and a girl respond in unison, raising their hands: “Brake!”
Once prepared, they put on racing suits. Again, everything is taken care of: pilot jacket, helmet, neck brace, etc. Once ready to step on the gas, the apprentice drivers are taught some basics to avoid accidents.
The start is launched to the sound of upbeat music. After a first warm-up lap, those who first heated up the tarmac start to imagine themselves as Fernando Alonso or Lewis Hamilton. At this point, they forget all the risks and have a blast on the track.
A relocated promotion for children
This relocation of a Disney-branded attraction is a first. Emilie Korchia, an employee of the company, explains: “We wanted to take advantage of the summer to get closer to children all over France. We are on a tour in ten cities.”
A tour that is enjoying clear success. With a beaming smile, the young woman rejoices, “Yesterday in Nice, it was packed, like almost everywhere. It’s free, the children are smiling. Some even come back. That means they liked it.”
Finally, she concludes enthusiastically: “If I had to do it again, I would do it with great pleasure.” That’s a wrap.
