Chardae Sanders, Staff Writer
Andretti Karting and Games has been a staple in the Metro-Atlanta area since it opened in 2000. Andretti has built a solid reputation of creating an environment that provides entertainment and memorable experiences for its family and corporate patrons at its 100,000 square foot facility.
In keeping with their mantra, “putting family and corporate entertainment on a whole new track”, this summer, a new track will be leading Andretti’s to Marietta. The new facility will offer a challenging ropes course, XD 7D Motion Theater, CXC racing simulators featuring iRacing, boutique style bowling, laser tag and over 120 video games in the arcade area complete with a fully stocked redemption center where the entire family will be pleased with the selection of great prizes.
Now for those patrons looking for a delectable bite to eat or simply unwind in the midst of the activities, don’t worry, you can have a bite at their on site restaurant and bar, Andretti Grill.
With the excitement surrounding the second location for Andretti’s, the Sentinel was able to catch up with Andretti’s Marketing and Social Media Manager, Samantha LaMagna to get some insight on the new location and all things Andretti Karting and Games.
The Sentinel: Andretti Karting has been open since 2000, where did the concept come from?
Samantha: After owning and operating several family entertainment centers in Florida, the owners fell in love with the thrill of indoor high-speed karting during a trip to Europe. They wanted to bring that dimension of racing to the United States, combine it with the fun of an FEC and create the ultimate entertainment destination for kids and adults alike.
The Sentinel: Is it safe to say that famed world-champion racing driver Mario Andretti was the muse behind the name?
Samantha: Definitely! In fact, the Andretti family is still closely associated with the business. One of the original owners is close friends with the Andretti family and chose to align the brand concept with one of the most prestigious and well-respected names in racing. Through this relationship, Andretti Karting is therefore afforded the unique opportunity to offer a rich history alongside the brand.
The Sentinel: Why was Marietta the focus for the new location?
Samantha: We did a lot of research and found that Marietta is one of Georgia’s best-managed cities and has garnered national recognition for offering a high quality of life for its residents. When the building became available that was easily accessible from Interstate 75 and had the space we require for our track and multitude of attractions, we knew it would be a perfect fit.
The Sentinel: With Kennesaw State University being right up the road from the new location, will there be student-geared specials?
Samantha: Absolutely! Not only are we going to have a student discount but [we] are also working on a College Night once a week.
The Sentinel: What sets Andretti’s apart from competitors such as Malibu Grand Prix?
Samantha: Andretti Indoor Karting and Games differentiates itself from the competition with the ability to house several entertainment options under one roof, the realistic racing experience we provide and our constant mission to improve the guest experience and attractions we provide to our guests. We serve not just race enthusiasts, but families, businesses, and social groups alike.
The Sentinel: From a personal aspect, where do you see Andretti in the next 5 years?
Samantha: We are very fortunate to have an ownership group that believes in growth and investing back into the brand. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games has a unique concept that I’m sure will be in several cities throughout the Southeast in the next five years.
Students, if you’re looking for employment, Andretti’s will be looking for exceptional employees to staff their new Marietta location for management, full and part time positions.
Like them on Facebook /andrettikarting or follow them on Twitter @andrettikarting for updates on their Marietta Job Fair.
