Mike Thomas, 71, was among the 60 patients who were part of Race4Life Track Day yesterday at Teretonga Park.
The event aims to help put a smile on the faces of palliative care patients providing experiences such as a ride in a race car, helicopter and motorbike.
"It is my first time at the event and I am feeling a bit breathless to be honest.
"I want to do everything.
"Have a helicopter ride and in the motorbike — It is like a Disneyland for old people and I feel blessed to be able to be part of this."
Mr Thomas had a ride in a Morgan 4/4 and said the drive reconnected with his past.
"I used to have a Morgan when I was younger, so it brought me a lot of memories.
Driver David Schlock was a volunteer at the event for the second time as he was part of the Morgan Sport Car Club.
"It is a very special day and is very humbling to see the happiness on people’s face when I take them for a ride."
Race4Life Trust founder and general manager Viv James said this was the fourth event held in Invercargill and it was all about bringing happiness to those palliative care patients.
"Some people think they would never want to do things like that but they did and loved it.
"Others are speed freaks.
"They are no different than any of us ... they are out and about, socialising, they are not going to medical appointments or isolated at home.
"They are living and connecting with other people."
