PARIS (AP) – Two determined Norwegian women, Merete Buljo and Tonje Thoresen, have embarked on an inspiring adventure by participating in a women-only cross-country vintage car race. Despite Buljo suffering from severe rheumatoid arthritis that prevents her from managing a stick shift, and Thoresen being blind due to a brain tumor that ended her career as a photographer, they aim to showcase their capabilities from Paris to the Mediterranean.
The duo's motto, "Making the impossible possible!", reflects their determination. They draw inspiration from the iconic movie “Thelma & Louise,” identifying themselves as successors of the film's protagonists, with a twist. They even searched for a Ford Thunderbird similar to the car driven by the characters in the movie to capture the spirit of their journey.
Thoresen stands out as one of the two blind navigators participating in the Princesses Rally, a five-day rally that commenced from Paris. The other blind navigator, Juliette Lepage, born blind, drives a 1977 MG. During their adventure, Thoresen enhances her navigating skills by relying on her heightened senses to navigate the picturesque spring landscapes of France. She can detect the scents of blooming flowers and the sounds of vintage engines, even identifying cars by their unique sounds.
Initially, Thoresen was taken aback when Buljo suggested they enter the race. "But I’m blind!" she cried. Buljo responded, “Yeah. And so what?” This exchange epitomizes their approach: they believe that if something seems impossible, it can be made possible with determination and teamwork.
While the pair planned to race a 1990 Pontiac Firebird, which features an automatic gearbox beneficial for Buljo’s arthritis, mechanical issues forced them to abandon it a week before the rally. In a last-minute twist, they opted for a modern car, which is ineligible for the official rally, yet the organizers permitted them to participate alongside competitors under the team name "Team Valkyries," inspired by powerful female figures in Norse mythology.
Despite not officially competing, Buljo and Thoresen decided against wasting their efforts. They are utilizing this opportunity to train and figure out how Thoresen can assist in navigation without the benefit of sight. Since GPS navigational aids are prohibited, Thoresen navigates using her keen sense of time and memorization of route notes created by Buljo, illustrating their effective teamwork. “I have an inside map and Tonje has an inside clock, so we make a great team,” Buljo said confidently.
More than just completing the course is their goal; they are keen to convey a message about the importance of embracing one’s disabilities instead of being ashamed. Thoresen emphasizes the significance of being proud of their remaining abilities and daring to undertake challenges. Their journey reflects a spirit of resilience, suggesting that proud acknowledgment of one’s competences can inspire others facing similar adversities.
As they traverse the landscapes of France, Buljo and Thoresen not only aim to challenge misconceptions surrounding disabilities but also strive to embody empowerment and adventure. Their shared experiences and determination resonate far beyond the race itself, sending a powerful message about capability and courage in the face of life’s hardships.
