Celebrity News

Legally blind ex-gov’s driving ambition

Former Gov. David Paterson, in Syracuse for the Mayor’s Ball, stopped by the Destiny Mall on Friday and took a spin around the track at the indoor go-kart spot, Pole Position. We’re told Paterson, who is legally blind, arrived with a group of four. “I didn’t know [Paterson] was blind, but people were telling me,” says a manager. “We gave him a shot. He came in with a police officer, and I trust his judgment that he wouldn’t bring in anyone who would do damage.” The politico had no problems on the track, avoiding an accident as he participated in the “standard race,” a 14-lap run around a quarter-mile track, equaling out to a full 3 1/2 miles of fast — if you choose — riding action. “He went slow,” continues the Pole Position employee. “He came in fourth out of four. Last, but he enjoyed himself. He took his time. He had a lot of fun.” Another source told us, “He was convinced by people that he could see the track well enough to drive it, so he did. I’d assume he is the first ex-Gov to drive the track, and I am very certain he is the first legally blind person.”