On Saturday, August 8th, Riverhead Raceway will have its first blind man compete in a race. This is both a historic and a heartwarming moment. The driver, Albert Rizzi, is an exceptional man. He is a former kindergarten teacher and principal who received his BA from Manhattanville College and he has a dual Masters of Science in education – one in early childhood and the other in administration and supervision from St. John’s University. He lost his sight to meningitis just 3 ½ years ago.
The race Mr. Rizzi will be entering is one in which the other racers all drive with a bag over their heads so they too have no vision and they are directed by a “co-pilot,” as will Mr. Rizzi, making for a very level playing field. This particular race called “The Blindfolded Taxicab Race” is run several times during the Riverhead Raceway season and is very popular with the race fans.
The decision or the challenge to compete in this race came about when John, one of Mr. Rizzi’s students, asked him what he missed most about not being able to see. The answer came fast and furious. What he missed most was not being able to drive. Ten year old John, who is a race fan whose family attends races at Riverhead Raceway, informed Mr. Rizzi that there was a race he could compete in at the racetrack. John threw out the challenge and Mr. Rizzi was delighted to accept it. He looks at his blindness not as a disability, but as a characteristic. He is an inspiration to all who know him.
Mr. Rizzi’s co-pilot in the race will be Michael ‘Cheesebox’ Rommeney. Michael Rommeney, who will also supply the car for the race is a very experienced participant and a great personality at the racetrack, and, like most racers, is always there to help.
Saturday, August 8th is the date. For more information, please contact (631) 842-RACE or Ann Young at (516) 381-8023.>
Source: Bob Finan / Riverhead Raceway>