Yas Marina Circuit has launched a new programme called 1st Gear Junior Driver Experience’ Children are introduced to the art of driving in a structured and safe environment. Right here in Abu Dhabi. Kids can have fun with driving but also learn important life skills but can also learn important skills for life. Angela Beitz caught up with Head of the Yas Racing School, Faisal Al Sahlawi, to see what it’s all about.
Tell us about 1st Gear Experience?
The 1st Gear Junior Driver Experience programme is designed for children between 11 and 17, and the aim is to introduce them to the art of driving, in a structured and safe environment. During the 2.5 hour session youngsters will cover some important basic driving theory and get practical training in handling a motor vehicle. The training is delivered by approved instructors and designed to build knowledge and develop critical car control skills. We are committed to helping young people become the safe, competent drivers of tomorrow.
Who would you recommend it to?
It’s fun. We recommend this program for kids eager to learn and develop basic car skills. By giving them hands-on experience of being behind the wheel of a car, the program helps kids become safe, competent drivers. This experience is all about instilling the necessary skills to cope with the demands of driving responsibly from a young age. They are trained by expert tutors in the exciting surroundings of the Yas Marina Circuit.
What skills do kids need to have to be good at driving?
Today, most early skills that kids pick up about driving are influenced by exposure to arcade and video games. The 1st Gear Junior Driver Experience equips youth with the ability to identify and locate controls, pull away smoothly, steer, and stop. For those who progress quickly through these basics, the focus moves on to changing gears, mirror usage, positioning the car on the road, and reversing. As such, we are equipping youth with the fundamental skills to drive safely in the future.
Why have you decided to introduce this sort of thing?
Yas Marina Circuit is committed to helping young people to become safe and competent drivers. This experience aims to develop those basic car control skills that are necessary for youth to become responsible drivers.
Is it dangerous?
No, they are fully monitored at all times and it is very safe. The program is run by Yas Racing School’s pool of registered instructors.
How have the children responded to the sessions?
Well, we’ll let 12 year old Avidar Al Kurdi from Jordan tell us: ‘This is my first time behind the wheel of a real car. It was a great experience, for a while it felt like a video game. I think I was able to control the car. The classroom was interesting and we learned how to be safe in a car. I have always watched my dad when he is driving and I always wanted to be able to drive him around. I am looking forward to coming here again for more driving practice and will tell all my friends at school about it.’
Tickets for 1st Gear Junior Driver Experience are Dhs440 per child for a 2.5 hour session. For more information visit www.yasmarinacircuit.ae or call (02 659 9800).
