Jason Liversidge (UK) is a self-confessed "adrenaline junkie" who loved skiing and motorcycling and loves to live life to the fullest.
However, when he was 37 years old, Jason was diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND).
He was diagnosed in 2013 although he had been feeling the debilitating effects of the illness developing since 2008.
MND is a disease that progressively weakens the brain and nerves, for which there is no known cure.
Despite the disease leaving him paralysed from the neck down with just 5% body mobility, Jason wanted to continue to push himself and pursue extreme activities.
Jason, who has a wife and two little girls, Lily and Poppy, wanted to leave a legacy for his family and decided to go for a speed world record.
"My wife Liz thinks I’m slightly barmy for doing it, although she’s 100% behind me," Jason said.
Three years ago, with the help of engineer Graham Sykes, electric-vehicle specialist Ian Goodman and Rod Heald from the British design and engineering firm Heald, Jason began work on a custom-made electric wheelchair.
His bespoke mobility vehicle was finally put to the test on the track at the Straightliners speed weekend, held at the Elvington airfield under the critical gaze of the UK Timing Association.
Jason's first two visits to the mile-long track saw him reach 51.3 and 52.7 mph, and on his third attempt, after increasing the battery voltage, he sped past the minimum requirement of 60 mph (95 km/h).
His final speed of 66.826 mph (107.546 km/h) officially broke the record for the fastest speed by an electric mobility-vehicle (prototype).
Jason was able to operate the customised vehicle with a joystick.
"My limbs move a millimetre or so – my arms move enough to operate a joystick or a mouse."
Despite his physical limitations, this is not the first time Jason has undertaken a challenging feat.
In 2017 he scaled Mount Snowdon - at 1,085 m (3,560 ft) the highest point in Wales - in his wheelchair; later that year, he abseiled off the Humber Bridge.
He went on to speed down the longest zipline in Europe, descend 33.5 m (110 ft) down the Lancaster Hole pot-hole in the Yorkshire Dales, and lap Silverstone in a Formula One-style car.
"Having a life-limiting illness isn't a reason to stop living" - Jason Liversidge
"Inspirational is a word that gets used a lot, although I don’t like the term because I’m just doing what I think is the right thing for my family."
"Wouldn’t any parent try to make the best of it for their children’s sake?"
Well, it’s clear that his daughters, Lily and Poppy, think the world of him and are incredibly proud of what he has achieved.
"I’m really really proud of my dad – he’s the most amazing dad in the world," said Poppy.
"I’m really proud of my dad for doing the world record and raising money for charity," Lily added.
So far, Jason has raised £5,467 to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association from his record attempt.
"Too many people are losing loved ones to this disease like myself."
"Through the efforts of a few, many will hopefully learn about this devastating illness even in times of suffering with Covid.
"I personally would like to carry on the project and try to better my goals and keep the challenge alive."
Congratulations Jason on your incredible achievement!
You can help support the work of the Motor Neurone Disease Association by donating to Jason’s JustGiving page.
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