I’ve had
various reactions to my becoming a race car driver and most have been really
positive. Why did I start racing? Why was I not content to stand on the
sidelines anymore? Motorsport had become
a huge part of my husband’s life and I wanted to be a part of it but for how
long can you watch from the sidelines, taking photos, making him coffee or
lunch. I did think it would be years
before I became bored but the opportunity came up to buy one of the guy’s cars
who was leaving the country. He was
about my height. I’m short by the way,
so there aren’t many cars that fit me.
The fact is, driving a race car is a lot of fun. Yes, it’s dangerous. Yes, its hard work and I get bruised a lot
but it is exhilarating, addictive fun.
That’s why there are so many men doing it. Why do we as women say “Oh that’s not for
me? I couldn’t do that or I wouldn’t
want to do that.” Aside from the jokes
aimed at my husband. It is actually hard
to run two race cars. There’s the
running cost for starters. Plus how do
you get two cars to the track and back? Buy
a truck of course! So then I had to get
my truck drivers licence. 2013 was a big
year for me. I’ve never thought of
myself as very outgoing or much of a risk-taker. I’m actually terrified of rollercoasters and
I have never really liked go-karting. My
daughter jokes that I’m having a mid-life crises but I think I’m just starting
to get the most out of life and get out there amongst it.
So why are
women in racing such an anomaly? I’m not
sure but I’m one very happy lady to be out there breaking the stereotype and
giving the guys a run for their money. I’m just not sure how I can make it until the
race season starts again in March 2014! Story by: Kathy Lisson Picture by: Rachel Lisson
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