As many of you know, March 31, 2012 I was in an accident that forever changed my life. So much has happened since then and I've exceeded specialists expectations in my recovery. I want to start by thanking everyone that have helped me through my healing, and to all who have contributed to my dream of being the first blind man to independently race the Bonneville Salt Flats. After the accident, I t
hought that dream was over. Then it came to me one night in bed that I could do this. Losing my eyesight did not have to stop my goals and dreams. My land-speed trike is a specially constructed configuration using an Aprilia 50cc motor and a 20mm Lectron carburetor. I've designed the frame and bent the tubes myself using bump dots on my tubing bender and friends have helped with the welding. When I first approached potential sponsors, family, and friends, I could sense the skepticism in their voices. Once I explained my thought process, it made sense. Safety has always been a concern of mine even as a racer. With help from Allen Dudley and Patrick Johnson from MFI Electronics, they designed a guidance system using a high grade GPS that alerts me if I stray off course and provides audible feedback to correct if necessary. Many fail-safe shut-off features both automatic and remote have been incorporated into this system as well. Thankfully BUB allowed me run and on August 26, 2013 I became the first blind man to independently race a motorcycle on the Bonneville Salt Flats. I get inspiration from the many blind friends that I’ve met who have achieved personal goals that I once thought would be impossible. I plan to return to the Salt and have many plans in the works. All of you know someone who is disabled whether it be a disability from birth, progressing through the years, or a tragic accident. We don't want to be seen as disabled but an individual who has talents and has to use a little ingenuity. A special thank you to those who have contributed to my dream and believe in me:
National Federation of the Blind
Star Racing
Sandy Kosman
Frank Porzio of Prozio Performance
Paul Gast of Fast by Gast
Lectron Fuel Systems
Air-Tech Streamlining
Racing Radios
Cool Shirt Systems
Dave Conforti of World Wide Bearings
ASA Performance
Micky Dymond along with Jamie Cheek from Cardo Systems a division of Scala Rider
Tom Kundrik with Mickey Thompson Tires
Held USA
Replay
Automotive Racing Products (ARP)
Jegs
Allen Dudley and Patrick Johnson of MFI Electronics
Vince Adams of Diversified Mechanical
Harry Williams, Josh Mackey, Sam Perry, Bill George and Mark Sisk. Clarence and Tedra Cloud
Amanda Harrelson Long
Jeffrey Dunn
The generous fans of ADRL - thank you!
