While women are prominent figures in IndyCar, NASCAR, and various racing series today, this wasn’t always the case. Back in the day, women with unconventional interests faced societal stereotypes. Being labeled a “tomboy” was common for girls who enjoyed driving and working on cars. But those of us who reveled in automotive pursuits were no less feminine.
Many of us “tomboys” were the firstborn daughters of fathers who initially desired sons. My dad, a neighborhood fixture, included all the kids in sports like football, kickball, and baseball. He worked for Rolls Royce and frequently brought home remarkable cars, including Joe Namath’s Jaguar and a Silver Cloud Rolls Royce, which I even had the opportunity to drive.
Cars possessed unique character then. While my dad drove a Ford station wagon for work, he also owned Dodges and Chevys. My mother loved Mustangs, getting one in 1965. I preferred larger cars, so my first car was a 1962 Chevy Bel Air, which I nicknamed “The Black Beauty.”
My dad taught me how to change the oil and filter and how to maintain my car. We worked on the brakes together. I dedicated entire days to cleaning and waxing my car. It was perfect for my driving style. Countless cars would pull up next to me, their drivers revving their engines, assuming I wouldn’t be a challenge. They were often mistaken. I rarely lost a race off the line.
Hanging out with friends, mostly guys, but some girls too, we drove Mustangs, Vettes, Chargers, and Chevelles. We all loved cars, pushing them to their limits. Did the girls always win? No, but it was always a thrill when we did!
So, remember, the next time you see a woman behind the wheel, know that women love speed and powerful cars just as much as anyone else.