Every adrenaline fan knows that if you want to get the ultimate buzz, it is not enough to do something extreme; you also need to do it extremely fast. Most of us have gone faster than we should from time to time, whether it is by car, bike or on horseback. But to see the professionals take it to the very limits of human, or in some cases animal capability, is an experience like no other.
Here, we have scoured the world for some very different racing events that every speed freak should attend at least once.
The Indy 500
The 500 is the most iconic motor racing event in the USA, and almost in the world – but more on that later. Believe it or not, the event has been taking place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for more than 100 years – the first ever Indy 500 took place on May 30, 1911, in front of an 80,000-strong crowd.
Today, it is as popular as ever, among drivers as much as spectators. Last year, Formula 1 legend Fernando Alonso memorably stood down from the Monaco Grand Prix to have the opportunity to drive at Indy.
The Grand National
Of course, there is another form of horsepower that even predates 1911. The Brits love their horse racing, but there is one event that crowns them all. The Grand National 2018 will continue a tradition that started way back in 1839.
Run for a total distance of more than four miles and over 30 jumps, it is seen as the ultimate challenge. The large number of riders, along with the infamously challenging jumps mean that attrition rates are high, and your heart will be in your mouth every second of the race. You will also be able to experience the unique ambiance of a British horse racing meeting.
The Tour de France
Another institution that dates back more than 100 years, Le Tour might sound a little tame compared with the rest. Prepare to be amazed. The speeds these guys attain are truly breathtaking, as they cycle through town, country and even up steep mountain roads.
As it runs over three weeks, a vacation to watch the Tour de France can also be combined with an opportunity to check out some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, so even if your traveling companion is not such a speed freak, he or she will have nothing to complain about.
Le Mans 24-hour race
Le Mans – two little words that send shivers down the spine. This is the only car race that can out-Indy Indy. In many ways, it is a throwback to a bygone era with the world’s best drivers battling harsh conditions, night driving and fatigue in an endurance event like no other.
For the ultimate adrenaline buzz, find a vantage point towards the end of the 3.7-mile-long Mulsanne Straight, where cars have been known to hit a mind-boggling 250 mph.
