A Quadriplegic Racecar Driver!

When you’re quadriplegic, you quickly learn that the world of other quads is pretty small—we all are inspired by each other and we learn from each other. Several years ago while visiting Ontario Speedway, I met Sam Schmidt, a former Indy Racing League driver who is now a quadriplegic. He became paralyzed from the neck down after crashing during testing in Orlando in 2000. My friend has lots of drive—recently a company modified a Corvette loaded with sensors and cameras which allows Sam to race again by turning his head to steer and ‘sipping’ on a straw to brake. It includes an infrared camera system, a sip/puff system, a computer system, GPS technology, and a safety system… Quite amazing! Take a look…