"It's a testosterone thing." (Fast Company Racing School)

• Author: Keaton, Joanne

Indy's Fast Company racing school

Always wanted to drive a race car? "All you need is sneakers," says Hank Chapman, owner of Fast Company Racing School, which operates in Indianapolis.

To be honest, there are two other requirements: a valid street driver's license and the price of the course. But Chapman's 2-year-old firm will provide the car, the course, a helmet and other gear, and instruction.

Fast Company is the only racing school based in Indianapolis, though schools headquartered elsewhere do come to town in the month of May. The biggest part of Chapman's business comes through group sales and corporate entertainment. Planners of conventions and company meetings like to provide fun activities for attendees; a course in car racing becomes an alternative to golf or a day at the ballpark.

Individuals also are welcome. A $250, three-hour introductory course starts with 45 minutes in class. Then students are introduced to the cars, and instructors make sure the vehicle fits the new driver. For the rest of the time, participants can act out their driving fantasies in an SSCA Spec Racer at Indianapolis Raceway Park.

A $2,495 five-day program will pave the way for a novice racing license.

Most customers are men. Instructors find that the women who come out usually are perfect in their driving techniques, though some have to learn to operate a stick shift on the spot. Also, women tend to drive more slowly. Chapman says that men may not practice as well what they learn in class, but they do go fast. "It's a testosterone thing," he adds.

The race...