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TOOELE — A young driver got his first chance behind the wheel on the racetrack Wednesday — however, 16-year-old Paul Wilson is also legally blind.
"I lost my sight when I was 7 years old due to brain cancer," said Paul, a student from American Fork High School.
Paul can only see shapes and colors with one eye, but with a little help, Paul drove.
Professional racecar driver Cindi Lux gave Paul his first driving lesson at Miller Motorsports Park. Lux told him how far to turn the wheel, and how much to press the gas and the brake: "Remember, hands on two and 10," she said. "Now we're going to squeeze on the gas a little bit."
Paul's mother, Mary Still, who set up the driving lesson, was nervous but thrilled to see him drive.
"I never thought he'd have an opportunity," she said.
As Paul’s siblings learned to drive, his desire grew as well, and Paul eventually wanted to give it a go.
"Man, it would be so amazing just try it," Paul said.
Lux was impressed by Paul’s drive and passion to learn.
"To me, he shows a sense of courage," Lux said.
At the end of the lesson, the sensation exceeded Paul’s expectations. He wanted to take a couple more fast laps around the track with his instructor.
"I don't know how to explain it. … It's kind of like your mind is taking over for you," Paul said.
Paul, of course, plans on returning next year for more driving adventures.
The individuals at Miller Motorsports Park wanted to do this for Paul. The communications director said that they like to do the things that Larry H. Miller would have done. Certainly, Miller would've enjoyed this particular driving lesson.
Contributing: Sara Jarman
