Man takes 10,000th spin on Disney's 'Cars' ride in California

Nov. 14 (UPI) -- A California man who is a regular at Disney California Adventure marked a unique milestone: His 10,000th ride on Radiator Springs Racers.

John Hale of Brea visited the theme park this week and chalked up ride No. 10,000 on the ride modeled after Disney Pixar's Cars franchise.

"Kind of didn't think I'd get there, but I did, the whole 10,000 took five years, five months and three days," Hale told KABC-TV.

Hale said his five-year journey to 10,000 rides began after a gastric bypass surgery and two knee replacements helped him lose 150 pounds.

"I came on preview day, like am I going to be able to bend my knees to get in that back row," Hale said. "I did and that's kind of when I fell in love."

Hale has returned to the park 760 times, riding the Cars attraction an average of 13 times per visit. He told the Orange County Register he once took 47 rides in a single day.

He said his quest to reach 10,000 rides has helped him remain healthy.

"Walking all day at the ride, I've also now done some Disney Run events, actually done three half-marathons, bunch of 5Ks and a couple 10Ks," Hale said.

The Disney fan said he hopes his accomplishment will inspire others.

"You should never give up. If you have a goal, never give up, keep after it," Hale said. "There may be days when you think you won't get it, but as long as you keep chugging away, you're going to get it."

Hale said he isn't done with the Radiator Springs Racers ride -- he's now planning to make it to 15,000 rides.