Lions Club Story of the Week: Racing to Serve

For International President Sid L. Scruggs III and many others, there are few things as exciting as a stock car race. Engines are revving and the crowd is cheering. So, when Sid told us about an annual Lions Stock Car Race in Wisconsin, we went there with a video crew to investigate. What we found were Lions serving their community while providing an opportunity of a lifetime to several locals, including those who are visually impaired.

Through a partnership with BOLD (Blind Outdoor Leisure Development), the Lions include a unique race during the event. Visually impaired drivers (fitted with blind folds to even the playing field) have the chance to get behind the wheel with a sighted pilot sitting beside them to guide them through the laps. We captured the action on film and even secured cameras on the dashboard and the windshield of one car.

“It gives people a chance to take risks, try new experiences and have fun while doing it,” said District Governor Karla Harris. “It shines a light on what Lions do.”

Truly a Lions event, all 53 clubs in District 27-A1 have participated in some way during the races. Lions sponsor and decorate the cars and all drivers must be Lions members. The thousands of dollars raised from the races goes to Lions charities, including the Wisconsin Lions Camp, the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Lions Foundation and the Lions Clubs International Foundation.