SANTA ANA, Calif. – A devoted Disneyland fan celebrated an incredible milestone on Monday, completing his 15,000th go-round on an attraction inspired by the animated movie “Cars.” For him, the joy lies not in claiming victory, but in the experience itself.

It’s all about embracing the journey.

Jon Alan Hale, who hails from Brea, California, was keen to take a spin on the Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure after recovering from significant health surgeries in 2010 and 2011. The ride, which launched in 2012, quickly became an obsession for Hale, who began meticulously logging each ride, noting details like the color of his car, the lane, and the outcome of the race in a dedicated notebook.

“I was instantly captivated by the ride,” shared Hale, who works as a television technician.

To commemorate every century of rides, Hale started bringing a sign along for the occasion. He fondly recalls the warm applause from Disneyland staff when he reached his 1,000th ride.

On Monday, Hale took the ride with friends who work at the theme park while wearing a “Cars” themed cap and holding a 15,000 sign.

Hale said he’s visited the Anaheim, California, resort known as the “Happiest Place on Earth” more than 1,100 times. He said he’s taken the ride on average 13 times each visit, largely thanks to the fast-moving line for single riders.

He said he doesn’t tire of it, especially since he never knows which car is going to pull ahead and win.

“You don’t know who is going to win the race,” Hale said. “There is no pattern of who wins or loses.”

Hale said there’s no formal record for riding the attraction inspired by the 2006 Pixar film released by Walt Disney Pictures. He said Disneyland officials said they don’t have one and Guinness World Records said they don’t track it either. Disneyland officials did not immediately comment on Hale’s ride Monday.

But on his quest, Hale said he’s come away with more than just a number. He’s gotten to know people at the park and become friends with some of the workers.

“It’s like family,” Hale said. “Everybody recognized me, they’re rooting for me.”