Patrick Staropoli: Blending Ophthalmology and NASCAR Racing

In the high-speed world of NASCAR where precision is key, having excellent eyesight is paramount. For one local driver, Patrick Staropoli, this requirement is more than just a skill; it reflects his professional expertise as an eye surgeon.

A Dual Career: Racing and Medicine

Known to fans as “Dr. Speed,” Patrick Staropoli balances two high-energy careers. A resident of Plantation, Florida, Staropoli is not only a skilled NASCAR driver but also a trained ophthalmologist. He discovered his passion for racing early on, starting with go-karts, and later progressed to competing on short tracks across the state during his mid-20s.

Educational Pathway

Staropoli pursued an education in medicine at the University of Miami School of Medicine, subsequently earning his degree in ophthalmology from Harvard University about a decade ago. His unique combination of skills places him at the intersection of two challenging fields—medicine and motorsports.

The Challenges of Juggling Two Passions

Managing both careers demands exceptional time management. “It’s a lot of time management,” Staropoli says, “and it requires a whole team effort on both ends to help me succeed.” He acknowledges the support he receives from colleagues and friends who encourage his dual pursuits.

Racing Ambitions

Currently, Staropoli competes in three of the four NASCAR series, with a total of 15 races scheduled this season. His ultimate aspiration is to secure a full-time position in the prestigious Cup Series.

How Medicine Enhances Racing Performance

Staropoli believes that his medical background positively influences his racing abilities, stating, “I think I’m a better race car driver because I’m a doctor. And being a racecar driver makes me a better physician.” He finds that the skills required in both professions, such as hand-eye coordination and smoothness in operations, translate well between the two.

Contribution to Fellow Drivers

At the racetrack, Staropoli frequently supports fellow drivers with medical advice. “Some people ask, ‘Hey, I have this funny thing on my eyelid; can you take a look?’,” he explains. His unique role fosters a collaborative environment among teams, where knowledge exchanges about racing and medicine take place. “I’ve always tried to use the racing platform to promote important causes in medicine,” he adds.

Recent Race Highlights and Upcoming Events

Recently, Staropoli achieved a commendable fourth place in the ARCA 125 at Rockingham. This Saturday, he is set to compete at Talladega, a challenging venue known for its high-speed racing and thrilling, but often dangerous, four-wide racing scenarios.

Patrick Staropoli continues to make significant strides in both his medical and racing careers, proving that passion coupled with dedication can lead to success in multiple arenas.