A North Texas Navy veteran says what should have been an exciting day at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington turned into a frustrating and exhausting experience.
Melvin Hayden said he faced multiple accessibility barriers while trying to attend the racing event, which he says ultimately kept him from getting inside. Hayden uses a powered wheelchair and crutches to get around. He describes himself as semi‑ambulatory.
Veteran describes mobility challenges
“My arms are too weak, my legs are too weak,” said Hayden. “I have radiculopathy that goes into my arms.”
On Saturday, Hayden tried to attend the Grand Prix but said a series of accessibility issues kept him from the IndyCar action — everything from closed accessible entrances to long wait times and long distances between gates. He said the experience quickly became overwhelming…