Editor's Notebook, August 1, 2004
by Karen Salvaggio

At Thunder Valley Racing, our interests are focused upon the challenges and successes of women racers across the broad spectrum of racing venues. Each month, we receive countless press release updates, and I spend considerable time reviewing the hottest web postings from news services and individual racer web pages to keep current on the efforts of women racers across the globe. This month, as I read the offerings, I was struck by one re-occurring theme: While women racers are making history on the track, the press still seems amazed that successful women racers can be talented drivers AND yet be feminine at the same time (as if for a women to be a successful racer she would surely have to be related to the Amazons)

Now you might ask where I would possibly get these perceptions? A look at the front page one of racing's rising superstars, Danica Patrick, provides an example:

Introduction

“When you first see Team Rahal's Danica Patrick you might be deceived by her appearance. First, you will notice her striking model looks, ……. Secondly, don't be deceived by her slight build, she is physically and mentally as tough as any driver in open-wheel racing……The first clue is her handshake….More than a few writers and sponsors have gasped in shock when they were on the receiving end of a Patrick handshake.”

I, for one, stand in amazement of Danica's talent on the track. She's a tough competitor, who has worked very hard to develop her driving skills, and it continues to astound me that the press (and her own PR folks) just don't get it. With the growing number of women competing at higher levels in motorsports, I guess should be glad that women drivers continue to attract positive press, but I await the day when the accomplishments of drivers are acknowledged for their sheer driving talent, and the abandonment of references to how close they are to being like men drivers.

On another note, here are a few opportunities for women drivers:

NASCAR “Drive for Diversity” Program

NASCAR says its "Drive for Diversity" program is now accepting applications from experienced minority and female drivers and interested minority and female pit crew candidates for its 2005 development program.

Candidates can submit materials to Access Marketing & Communications, 401 N. Tryon St., 10th Floor; Charlotte, NC 28202. Resumes and supporting materials may also be e-mailed to driver@drivefordiversity.com. Additional information is available on the Internet at www.drivefordiversity.com

WAAI Sponsors “Women in Racing” Event

October 6, 2004

Women's Automotive Association International (WAAI) is once again hosting Women in Racing , an event honoring Janet Guthrie, October 6 at the Automotive Hall of Fame.  Please review the attached event flyer! 

Please contact WAAI president Lyn Wilhelm, and let her know if you would like to participate in the program.  All they ask of women racers is to attend the event, wear your gear, bring give-a-ways if you wish, and be available to sign autographs and mingle with your fans!  They are also interested in displaying as many cars as possible.  They want to make sure to include all your info in the press info.

Just email your name and bio to Lyn at lmwassoc@aol.com by September 1. 

Please pass this info on to anyone that may be interested.  Info is also available at www.waai.com , www.thundervalleyracing.com , and www.racerchicks.com.

Home | About Us | Contact Us
Site Map | Privacy Policy | Copyright
Site By Pithy Productions, Inc.