On June 13, over 30 cars will hit the track at the Granby Autodrome in what could very well be the slowest race in the world.
Actually, it will be the 21th edition of Défi Vision, a fund-raising event for the Mira Foundation. What's so special? Blind people will sit behind the wheel!
For Jean Royer, one of the race organizers, Défi Vision is more than just a financing campaign. "For many blind people, it represents a unique challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime shot at driving a car, he said during a press conference. It's also an innovative opportunity to educate those blessed with the sense of sight."
The blind drivers are obviously assisted by a sighted co-driver, whose only task is to provide directions without ever touching the steering wheel or getting involved in other ways than voice commands.
Radio-Canada meteorologist Jocelyne Blouin, who took part in last year's race, is proud to share her experience, although she admits she still has goose bumps. "Directing someone who can't see and has never stepped behind the wheel of a car is quite a challenge, she told. The track becomes a real obstacle course, with all sorts of debris and other cars flying in your direction. It all makes for one unforgettable night."
Many celebrities have once again confirmed their participation as co-drivers. Guest president Bertrand Godin, Joanna Villeneuve (widow of Gilles Villeneuve) and various media representatives will be on hand, not to mention the Leader of the Opposition in Quebec, Mario Dumont. Two members of Auto123.com will also take part in the race.
Cars used for this event are old jalopies that are good for scrap at the end of the race. The first team to complete 10 laps -- or the one leading after 30 minutes -- is declared the winner.
Last year, the Mira Foundation wound up collecting over $72,000. The 21th Défi Vision will take place at 7:30 p.m. on June 13, at the Granby Autodrome.
photo:Philippe Champoux
Actually, it will be the 21th edition of Défi Vision, a fund-raising event for the Mira Foundation. What's so special? Blind people will sit behind the wheel!
For Jean Royer, one of the race organizers, Défi Vision is more than just a financing campaign. "For many blind people, it represents a unique challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime shot at driving a car, he said during a press conference. It's also an innovative opportunity to educate those blessed with the sense of sight."
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| During the press conference of the 21th Défi Vision, horse racers Jacques Hébert and Sylvain Filion joined Mira spokesman Jean Royer, guest president Bertrand Godin and a few honorary invitees for a short demo session on the track at the Montreal Hippodrome. |
The blind drivers are obviously assisted by a sighted co-driver, whose only task is to provide directions without ever touching the steering wheel or getting involved in other ways than voice commands.
Radio-Canada meteorologist Jocelyne Blouin, who took part in last year's race, is proud to share her experience, although she admits she still has goose bumps. "Directing someone who can't see and has never stepped behind the wheel of a car is quite a challenge, she told. The track becomes a real obstacle course, with all sorts of debris and other cars flying in your direction. It all makes for one unforgettable night."
Many celebrities have once again confirmed their participation as co-drivers. Guest president Bertrand Godin, Joanna Villeneuve (widow of Gilles Villeneuve) and various media representatives will be on hand, not to mention the Leader of the Opposition in Quebec, Mario Dumont. Two members of Auto123.com will also take part in the race.
Cars used for this event are old jalopies that are good for scrap at the end of the race. The first team to complete 10 laps -- or the one leading after 30 minutes -- is declared the winner.
Last year, the Mira Foundation wound up collecting over $72,000. The 21th Défi Vision will take place at 7:30 p.m. on June 13, at the Granby Autodrome.
photo:Philippe Champoux