I grab my ID – some form of identification, whether it be a DNI or passport are needed to register during your first visit, no need for a driver’s license – and am out the door.

Squeezed into a full-body racing gear glove – like the professionals – I strap my helmet on, climb into the cart and am ready to fulfill all my racecar driving dreams. What makes this time different is the added bonus of leaving my male co-workers in the dust. Just the thought of them returning to the office with their tails between their legs – attributing the win to first-time female luck, while they whimper on the inside – has been a long time coming.

The last time I stepped into one of these carts I was 11 – the year before turning ‘too cool’ to do so again – and we were on vacation in North Carolina at a place called Fun ‘n’ Wheels. The high-tech pro style of Indoor Karting is worlds beyond that rinkydink Carolina carting park.

Here they offer several services that complete the authentic racing experience. The PitStop is just as crazed as the ones seen in Formula-1 races, where racers pause to have tires changed against a ticking clock. In addition, they offer photography and videography, giving the races a real-life touch of glamour and paparazzi buzz. Perfect too for those that come out triumphant to replay on rotation in the office or at home.

So, I rev up the engine, take a quick glance to my side at my Miniguide competition, and head off. After doing some laps – stomach up around the  chin and nose area, face flapping like jelly – I cross the finish line first. Feeling generous for those I left behind – this only a practice run, after all – I decided to treat the team to drinks in Indoor Karting’s sports bar.

The IK experience doesn’t stop there. They also have a game room with scalextric, pool and foosball. On the two jumbo screens – if you haven’t gotten enough from the track – catch all the professional Formula-1 action as well as soccer league matches. Luckily, we had the whole place to ourselves until 6pm to explore.

After some congratulatory remarks, we finalized plans for our return. We were also shown the practice run photos and video. Taking advantage of the free WiFi, I immediately got to emailing my victorious finish to family, friends and my co-workers — so they wouldn’t forget.

Since IK hosts everything from company and endurance races, to driving courses and even bachelor and bachelorette parties with catering, I began planning a racing night out with my girlfriends in my mind. After all, I was a semi-pro now.