When driving, I always keep my eyes on the road. That’s one of the basic rules of driving. But for this man from Columbus, Georgia, this rule doesn’t apply. After all, he is a blind man. Meet Dan Parker, a blind machinist aiming to become the world’s fastest blind man. Let's take a look at this unique man and his attempt to break a similarly unique record.
Blind But Not Out
If you’re wondering why Parker is so passionate about speed, it is because he has been racing since he was a kid. At the age of eight, Parker competed in his first race and finished second. Several years later, he won the American Drag Racing League's pro nitrous world championship and the Dixie Pro Stock crown.
Of course, Parker still had the light in his eyes at this time. But this light turned into dark no thanks to a freak accident. Parker was going as fast as 175 mph sometime in 2012 when he crashed his 1963 Chevrolet Corvette into a concrete barrier.
But while other people would give up after such a horrible accident, Parker didn’t. In fact, he became the first-ever blind man to challenge the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2013. After a year, he set a new class record. Parker employs a custom guidance system that tells him how to keep his course true and steady.
Setting A New Goal
Parker’s need for speed won't be satisfied anytime soon and he is already moving towards another noble goal – to become the fastest blind man on land. For now, the blind land speed record belongs to Mike Newman, who drove a Nissan GT-R to a top speed of 200.9 mph.
To achieve his goal, Parker acquired a salvaged C6 Corvette sans an engine and interior. This C6 Corvette is now powered by a 570-hp engine boosted by a custom nitrous kit from Induction Solutions, as complemented by Baer racing brake pads and RideTech’s rear and front springs. Parker’s safety is guaranteed by a full roll cage from Custom Rollcages, Stroud Safety seatbelts, window nets and a parachute.
Go For The Record
To ensure Parker hears the guidance system, his Corvette is fitted with a three-muffler custom exhaust. The system also acts like a safety net as it shuts down the car if Parker goes 20 feet off the centerline. Parker only needs to go as fast 201 mph to set a new blind land speed record! Go for it!
Source: The Blind Machinist, Robb Report