Dad jumping on his birthday Sept 10 2012
(photo courtesy of Skydive Myrtle Beach)

As I’m writing, I can hardly believe Father’s Day is here. But rather than lament the speed at which this year is flying by, I’d rather focus on the subject at hand. Like many of you, my relationship with my dad has evolved over the years – to one now of mutual respect and an understanding that he buys breakfast. Just kidding, but he does buy breakfast. And, not just for me, for all of us. And, not just for breakfast, for any meal when we dine out together. It’s an endearing gesture that reminds me he’s “Dad,” as much as I’m sure it reminds him of the same. No matter how old we get, we’re still his kids and he’s still our Dad. However, a one-sided financial arrangement rarely works, so, when possible, my siblings and I try to come up with ways to pick up the tab. Father’s Day is the perfect time to do it.

He’s quite the daredevil now that he’s 70. Last year, he went skydiving on his birthday. This year, for Father’s Day, we’re giving the gift of speed. We purchased the NASCAR Racing Experience at the Charlotte Motor Speedway and I know he will love it. Of course, I’m counting on him not reading this before Sunday so as not to spoil the surprise. But given that he’s at the beach with no phone or internet, I think we’re safe.

If you have an adrenaline seeking Dad like mine, and you don’t already have his gift lined up, here are some ways locally to hook him up with an adventure. The following are just a few examples of ways you can give Dad a thrill:

US National Whitewater Center – rafting, zip lining, rock wall climbing, just to name a few of the activities available 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, NC. Phone: 704-391-3900. http://www.usnwc.org (And a reminder, Saturday the Whitewater Center hosts its annual Brew Stash Bash, with a trail race, live music and a craft beer fest.)

Carolina Adventure World – dirt bike riding, ATV, trail riding, endurance events, camping, wildlife, you name it, and fathers get ½ off admission with child. Just a short drive from Charlotte off I-77 at 1515 Arrowhead Rd, Winnsboro, SC. Phone 803-482-3534 http://www.carolinaadventureworld.net/

The Pit – another way to satisfy the need for speed, high speed indoor go kart racing, laser tag. 346 East Plaza Drive, Mooresville, NC. Phone: 704-799-3470. http://www.meetatthepit.com

Balloons Over Charlotte – located right here in Cornelius hot air balloon rides over Lake Norman 19357 H.M. Junker Dr Cornelius NC. 704-896-5241 http://www.balloonsovercharlotte.com/

And last but not least,

Carowinds – for the Dad whose still a kid at heart amusement rides like Thunder Road and Drop Zone offer adrenaline up on a silver platter. There’s a reason why it’s called the Thrill Capital of the Southeast. 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC. Phone 704-588-2600 http://www.carowinds.com/

There you have it, folks. My picks for a swashbuckling Father’s Day. Forget the tie. Give him excitement.

Robin Gibson is a writer living in Cornelius. You can find her blog at http://www.robingibsonart.com/blog.html. See her previous columns under the “Robin Gibson” category.

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