He may be nearing 92, but that didn’t slow down Bruce Cahill when he hopped in a V8 for a hot lap of Melbourne’s Sandown Racecourse.
Bruce, who is living with dementia, is a resident at Wintringham’s Ron Conn facility in Avondale Heights.
The adrenaline-pumped drive of a lifetime was organised by his daughter Maureen Dorman and Wintringham’s recreation officer.
“Dad has always loved his cars, so between myself and the staff at Wintringham, we arranged for Bruce to be booked in for a hot lap,” said Maureen.
“Dad was a boxer, and has always had an interest in sport, whether it’s football, horse racing or car racing, and has a huge respect for any athlete,” said Maureen.
She said while he was watching the cars on the track he said “Wow, look how fast they’re going!” and when he learned he was going to go next he said “I can’t wait.”
“He enjoyed watching the cars speed around the track while waiting patiently for his turn. Finally it was time to put on the race suit and have his photo taken with one of the race cars.
“When it was finished he didn’t want to get out of the car, and asked to do it again. You should have seen his face – he was glowing and the experience made him feel like he was the same as everyone else.”
Maureen said all the spectators and staff were very impressed with Bruce’ enthusiasm and willingness to give it a go.
“The spectators on the day were also excited to see my father at almost 92 having a ride in such a fast car, they all cheered him on as he got into the car and again when he finally got back out again,” she said.
Now Bruce has a big photo of the special day in his room, and Maureen has a copy at home.
“It is a wonderful memory for us both,” said Maureen.
Now he’s got a taste of life in the fast lane, staff are planning another speedy adventure for Bruce – this time in a motorbike sidecar.
“He’s 91 – he might as well enjoy these moments,” she added.
