The day was warm, the cars were loud, and there was excitement in the air. Afterall, it is not every day that one gets to be on a racetrack next to NASCAR race cars, let alone have a chance to either drive or go for a ride-along in one. This is especially true for individuals with mobility impairments. But, on Saturday, July 12th that is exactly what I AM did!
To make this event possible we partnered with another nonprofit organization called Adaptive Driving Experience (ADE) to hold a NASCAR racing experience at Evergreen Raceway. ADE came down from New Hampshire with an awesome team along with their adapted race car which included a turning seat and hand controls allowing individuals with paralysis and other mobility impairments to experience the thrill and joy of driving a real NASCAR race car. We were also joined by a great team of volunteers which included students from the University of Scranton PT and OT Departments and Kings College OT Department, as well as PT’s from Impact Physio and Allied Services. Together they helped make new and lasting memories for those who were able to join us.
The day started early for the “pit crew” getting everything set up and making sure the cars were ready. As the first participants arrived they were fitted with full fire suits and prepped to get on the track. They were clearly eager to get behind the wheel and experience all the unbridled horsepower the car had to offer. After a very brief rain delay, just like on TV, we had the car fired up by 10: 30 – and boy was it loud! It is hard to describe the feeling, being that close to those cars as they come alive. You can literally feel the power that they have. And, to know that you have a chance to experience it first-hand is really exciting.
The track was only 1/3 of a mile and it was hard to know what to expect. The car sounds fast, it looks fast banking around the turns – but being inside is a whole different story. The power and acceleration almost has to be experienced to appreciate it. Starting high then dropping down into a turn, slowing a bit, only to power out the other side and rapidly accelerate to the next turn. You can feel every bit of the power as the force and momentum tugs at you. Boy is it fun!
As the first individuals came off the track you could could see the smiles. You could hear the happiness in their voices as the described their experience to others. From descriptions of how it was to drive and handle the turns, to comments like “I’m glad the professional driver was next to me because going into the turns I could feel him tapping the brakes, know I was coming in too hot.”, it was clear everyone was enjoying themselves. Many stated that they actually enjoyed having the professional driver take over for the last few laps because he was really able to push the car and the track far beyond what they felt they could. It was also common to hear that they have a new appreciation for what they see on TV.
As the day came to an end we were able to get a total of 10 driving and 8 ride-along experiences completed. We had individuals with spinal cord injuries (both paraplegics and quadriplegics), Spina Bifida, ALS, MS, and others participate. There was no doubt that everyone had a good time. In fact almost everyone said they definitely wanted to do it again. And, I’m sure we will. Below are a few quotes we received to help give a sense of the day and the great time everyone had:
“Getting the chance to drive a real race car! I never thought that was a possibility.” Tom G.
“I really enjoyed my session! I was able to drive faster than I ever have before. Now I know what NASCAR really feels like. A real lifetime memory! Very good times.” John A.
“Another awesome experience in adapted sports with I AM! Only wish I could’ve taken more laps! A.D.E. folks were a great bunch.” Scott W.
“Thanks everyone for today, for being helpful, and kind. It was a great experience. Can’t wait to do it again!” Wilson M.
“This was an excellent experience. A lot of adrenaline. Best so far of accessible sports. Everyone did an excellent job of helping everyone.” Ismael A.
“The experience was exhilarating! It was something I never thought I would get the chance to do. Everyone was very helpful.” Frank M.
We want to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who made this event possible. Thank you to the team from ADE for not only making the long trip, but bringing the car that they put so much time, energy, and money into developing as well as their passion for providing this experience to individuals with mobility impairments. Thank you to Jason at Evergreen Raceway for for welcoming us and being so accommodating. Thank you to the volunteers who did an amazing job of getting everyone suited up, assisting with transfers, and both setup and clean up. We also want to say thanks to Photography by Jennifer Kucharski for spending the day with us and taking so many great pictures. You can see the full gallery here: https://jenniferkucharski.pixieset.com/adayatthetrack/
Lastly, but certainly not least, we want to say thank you to our supporters and event sponsors – Toyota of Scranton, Cable Associates, and Quantum Rehab. You are a huge part of what goes into making days and experiences like these possible. It is great to be able to provide opportunities like these and get together with others who understand the day-to-day experiences of having a mobility impairment. These types of activities can really be transformative for some and beneficial for all, including family, friends, and the community, as we share in each others joy and the power of possibility and opportunity! Once again, THANK YOU EVERYONE!
