In A Boy’s World – Women in Stock Car Racing
July 31st, 2011 adminStock car racing is, without a doubt, considered a man’s sport. Yet, the history of stock car racing is littered with women who have made their marks on the racetrack. As early as the 1940′s, women were hopping into the driver’s seat. The first female drivers in NASCAR history were Sara Christian and member of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, Louise Smith. These two trailblazers paved the way for future female stock car drivers.
The 2000′ s have seen a significant increase in attention on female racers.Want more? Click here/tag Jennifer Jo Cobb is a prominent racer and spokeswoman; she began racing in 1991 and in 2002 she drove nine races with three top 10s. Currently, she owns her own CWTS team and drives the 41 Ford Mustang for Rick Ware Racing. The spotlight of 2011, however, undeniably shines on Danica Patrick, the five year winner of IndyCar’s “Most Popular Driver” award. In 2009, she placed third in the Indianapolis 500 behind Dan Wheldon and Helio Castroneves. This achievement ranked her as the highest finishing woman racer in the history of the Indy 500.
Despite the few women who have become high profile stock car drivers, most young female racers are met with much resistance when it comes to sponsorship and racing.