By Rowan Forster
Burning rubber at more than 300km/h in a Formula 1 race car was one of the most exhilarating experiences of Rod Capuano’s life.
The director of O’Brien Real Estate ticked an item off his bucket list when he sat in the cockpit of the famous super car during the Melbourne Grand Prix at Albert Park.
It wasn’t just a spontaneous activity for Mr Capuano, but something he had aspired to do for much of his life.
When he entered the red and white livery car, he felt complete.
“I race go karts a lot, but I’ve never experienced anything like that,” he told the Pakenham Gazette.
“It was absolutely exhilarating, exciting and excellent.”
It began with a normal day in the office for Mr Capuano, when he received an email offering him the opportunity to take the thrill ride.
He described the decision to take the challenge as a “no-brainer”.
But his love of Formula 1’s stems far beyond the race track, to all vehicles great and small.
“I just love the technology – it’s constantly evolving and it’s really stunning,” Mr Capuano said.
“Everything from the fuel economy to the aerodynamics of a car, it’s incredible to see what they’re capable of.”
The revhead experience didn’t stop with the clamping of the breaks.
After his adrenaline pumping ride, Mr Capuano was invited to attend the Melbourne GP marquee and brush shoulders with celebrities and sporting personalities.
“It was a very full on day,” he said.
“I did the drive and then I got to go into the pits and the marquee area and it was really quite mind-blowing.”
When asked if he would consider tenure behind the Formula 1 wheel, Mr Capuano said: “Given the chance, of course; but it’s not cheap.”
The motorsport fanatic has travelled far and wide attending Grand Prix’s across Australia and the world.
