In March, just before Furious 7 was about to hit cinemas, Californian Alex Baltazar won a US$25,000 trip to Abu Dhabi on The Ellen DeGeneres Show contest "Diesel Dash to Abu Dhabi". Baltazar raced a rival on a super-sized tricycle around the set, and got to meet celebrity host Ellen DeGeneres and Fast and Furious star Vin Diesel.
Baltazar, tells The National about her win and the luxury trip planned for January 2016, during which she will spend a total of 13 nights at Emirates Palace and Jumeirah at Eithad Towers.
How was it that you came to enter competition?
To attend a live taping of show, you must submit an inquiry to attend, which I had done several times. To my surprise, one day I was finally contacted to receive a ticket and I just happened to be selected.
Were you a big fan of Fast and Furious before that?
I've always been a huge fan of the Fast and Furious franchise. I've followed it from the very beginning. I grew up watching Vin Diesel and love his movies.
Did you get to talk to Vin Diesel?
I got to talk to him during the commercial break. I had so much to ask him, but with the short amount of time there was, I only remember telling him that I grew up watching him and I love his movies. He said, “Thank you so much. You are very sweet.” And he gave me a hug.
Did you enjoy watching Furious 7?
I watched Furious 7 the morning it was released, that way I could avoid the crowds. When the Abu Dhabi scenes occurred, I became even more excited knowing that I am going to be visiting.
When will you be coming over, and who are you bringing?
My father. I’m in the process of making arrangements with my school schedule as well saving extra vacation cash. It looks like the end of January 2016, when I celebrate my birthday.
What do you plan on doing while on your holiday?
I plan on visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Ferrari World, and will be going dune-bashing. And I cannot wait to check out the Furious 7 film locations, such as Emirates Palace, and, of course, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. I am looking forward to taking advantage of having access to the Observation Deck at 300. I'm determined to recognise Abu Dhabi locations shown in the movie because I want to have as many photos as I can that relate to the franchise.
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