“Joel has had it on his bucket list to take part in a speedway ride and we’re going to make it happen.”
Joel said the experience means a lot to him.
“I’m pretty keen to get into it and I sure am looking forward to it.
“I would probably have had a go at speedway racing if I hadn’t been injured.”
A car enthusiastHe has always had a keen interest in cars.
“I have bought four cars since my accident — a couple of Nissan 300 ZXs, a 2004 Clubsport R8 and a 2008 Holden Commodore GTS.”
All four are parked around his home in Paraone Road.
“My girlfriend Mana (Te Kani) and my caregivers Tinnelle Madden and Mahara Foley drive me round in them all the time. So I like cars in general, not just speedway.”
Keven Pistor said they had put a specially-made passenger seat into a streetstock for Joel to sit in and be strapped into for his track debut tomorrow evening.
“He won’t be racing with other cars as such but he will get to ride around the track at speed, which is what he has long hoped to do.”
Mr Pistor said the ride had been made possible with support from Gisborne Speedway Club, particularly Neil Gooch.
“It’s not normally something Speedway New Zealand allow but they have done so in this case, which we very much appreciate.”
Mr Gooch said the decision to help realise Joel’s dream was an easy one.
“Joel is not sitting at home and feeling sorry for himself. He wants to do things and good on him,” Mr Gooch said.
Preparations for the special drive attracted sponsorship from Ralph Scott, the Roseland Tavern, East Manufacturers and Outdoor Leisure.
“Daniel O’Neill (14G) has provided the car we have modified and so thanks to him too,” Mr Pistor said.
“I really appreciate all the support given for this and I would like to thank everyone involved," Joel said.
“It means a lot to me.”
