Notebook: AirTran Raceway with Danica Patrick

Think Danica’s overrated? Put your money where your mouth is and race her at the new AirTran Raceway. Created by AirTran Airways as a viral advertising campaign for their A+ Rewards program (I guess it’s working!), AirTran Raceway is an online game that lets players race Danica Patrick on one of 4 courses and in one of 4 different AirTran vehicles. The top racer on each track each week there’s an Indy Racing league event wins a free flight on AirTran.

While you’re racing, Danica will throw a lot of trash talk at you like:

• This is the closest you’ll ever get to me.
• You may want to pit like, forever.
• Grandma? is that you?
• If I were you, I’d plan on payin’ for your flight.

I’m not sure if she’d say anything different if you were to actually beat her in a race. Maybe she’d stomp off without saying anything, or perhaps she’d kick a garbage can or poke you in the head and shout “use your head” or something. I’m just guessing those are some things she might do, I’m not sure why they popped into my head.

Anyway, here are some screen shots:

Be sure to enjoy the kickin’ soundtrack for a few moments, then select your track. Here’s a tip: start with the easiest one on the left.

Next, select your vehicle. Some really outstanding choices here- I mean, what else would you want to race against a 650hp+ IndyCar Series car than an AirTran catering truck, luggage truck, people mover, or stair car? I guess they must have super powers.

Next, get a few instructions. Be sure to pay attention to the “Power-Ups”. You’ll need to hit those on the course to have any hope of posting a decent time.

Finally, race! Hold your finger on the accelerator and don’t get distracted by Danica’s heckling!

Here’s a tip: when the game is over they’ll try to make you register to play again. But just refresh your browser and you can play again. Of course, if you think you can post a time fast enough to win a free flight, then by all means register!

Have fun!