It has been a long time since we talked about the video game Gran Turismo 5. Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC (SCEA) and Polyphony Digital Inc., in collaboration with Nissan North America, have been hosting GT Academy 2012. This unique competition blends the virtual and real worlds of racing, offering gamers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transition from playing Gran Turismo 5 to driving real race cars.
They have cut about 400,000 applicants down to the 16 final competitors who will have the chance to drive a real racecar. The final 16 drivers will head to the UK, where they will attend a week-long boot camp this August at the prestigious Silverstone racing circuit. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most skilled and dedicated virtual racers make it to the final stage.
The Boot Camp Experience
During the boot camp, the virtual racers will be driving real race cars and will be judged and eliminated by racing professionals based on their skills, performance, and overall aptitude for the requirements of driving professionally. This immersive experience is designed to test the competitors’ physical and mental endurance, as well as their ability to adapt to the high-pressure environment of professional racing. The boot camp will be televised on Spike TV’s GT Academy North America later this year, allowing fans to follow the journey of these aspiring racers.
The boot camp at Silverstone is not just about driving; it includes a series of challenges that test the competitors’ fitness, reaction times, and ability to work under pressure. They will receive coaching from professional drivers and instructors, who will provide valuable insights and feedback to help them improve their performance. This comprehensive training program is crucial in preparing the competitors for the demands of professional racing.
The Road to Professional Racing
The winner of the competition will be allowed to drive a factory-prepared Nissan 370Z racing car in select races. This opportunity is a significant stepping stone for any aspiring racer, providing them with the chance to showcase their talent on a larger stage. The winner will also receive ongoing support and training from Nissan and Polyphony Digital, helping them to further develop their skills and pursue a career in motorsports.
Last year’s winner of the competition is still driving Nissan racecars and has found himself on the winner’s podium in some events. This success story highlights the potential of GT Academy to discover and nurture new racing talent. The program has already produced several professional drivers who have gone on to compete in prestigious racing series around the world.
GT Academy is more than just a competition; it is a testament to the power of video games to inspire and create real-world opportunities. Gran Turismo 5, with its realistic driving physics and detailed car models, provides a solid foundation for aspiring racers to hone their skills. The collaboration between SCEA, Polyphony Digital, and Nissan North America demonstrates the potential for innovative partnerships to bridge the gap between virtual and real-world experiences.
In conclusion, GT Academy 2012 is an exciting and groundbreaking initiative that offers gamers the chance to turn their passion for racing into a professional career. The journey from virtual racing to real-world competition is challenging and demanding, but for those who succeed, it is an incredibly rewarding experience. As the final 16 competitors head to Silverstone, the world will be watching to see who will emerge as the next racing star.
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