Ben Felten's childhood dream was to become a professional motorcycle racer. Then, at 15, he was diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease and told he would eventually lose his sight.
For years his 20/20 vision helped him ignore this reality. However, his peripheral vision began to disappear and at the age of 25 he cancelled his driver's licence. This cost him his freedom and his career.
The next two years were the toughest of Ben's life. His grief and anger manifested as violence, leading to time in prison, and depression. But he fought his way to the realisation he must accept the diagnosis and take control of his life - and make a positive difference for others with a disability. As he went on a journey to become a professional athlete, the world opened up for him.
At 35 Ben lost the sight in one eye, and at 37 he awoke one day completely blind. His pursuit of an extraordinary life continued, undiminished.
Ben has won multiple World Championships in rowing and cricket and is a leader of the sporting community. He was a founder of the Nepean Blind Sports Club and of Sailability Penrith Lakes, which helps people of all abilities get into sailing. Many athletes and Paralympians owe their start to his passion, drive and insistence on inclusivity. Ben's charity, In Sight of Dreams, assists those with an acquired disability to achieve their life goals.
Returning to his first love, Ben set out, with former Moto GP rider and Spanish Grand Prix champion Kevin Magee, to break the world blind motorcycle land speed record - which he achieved in 2018, clocking 266.685 km/h.
Blind Speed tells the remarkable story of Ben's courage and tenacity in the face of life-changing challenges, and his determination that everyone, with or without a disability, can and must pursue their dreams.
Title: Blind Speed
Format: Paperback Book
Release Date: 04 Nov 2025
Type: Ben Felten
Sku: 3445017
Catalogue No: 9781786584922
Category: Reading