Celebrating, promoting and supporting women in motorsports and Moto Enthusiasts

Enders exits second round in Sonoma

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Erica Enders in SonomaErica Enders and her Elite Motorsports team are more determined than ever after a second-round exit in the 28th Annual NHRA Sonoma Nationals on Sunday at Sonoma Raceway.   It was a first appearance for her Elite team at Sonoma Raceway, having been one of the events the team had sat out in 2014 (Enders had last raced at Sonoma in 2012).    Still, she qualified No. 9 and advanced to the second round before bowing out to No. 1 qualifier and eventual race winner Chris McGaha.

 “We’ve got nothing to be ashamed of,” Enders said. “We’re going to load up and go to the next race. My guys are the most determined bunch I’ve ever met. Right now our day is over, but where are all three of my crew chiefs (Rick and Rickie Jones and Mark Ingersoll) and my team owner (Richard Freeman)? They’re in the lounge, going over notes and trying to figure out how to get better.  You can bet your bottom dollar that we’ll be back, and we’re just going to use this to fuel our fire.”

Enders and her team have a knack for digging deep and overcoming adversity. Earlier this year, they turned a first round loss in Gainesville into a win with the K&N Horsepower Challenge in Charlotte and the national event win in Las Vegas and then another win in Houston.    And after losing in the first round in Englishtown, she raced to the semifinals in Epping, and then the winner’s circle in Bristol. Enders also lost in the first round in Norwalk, Ohio, before going to two consecutive semifinals in Chicago and Denver.

In Sonoma, her 100th consecutive race, Enders faced No. 8 qualifier Shane Gray in the first round, and she left first with a .017-second reaction time and held off Gray with a pass of 6.531 seconds at 211.93 mph. Gray’s run was slightly better, 6.530 at 212.39 mph, but Enders won on a holeshot.

“There have been plenty of days when my team has carried me,” Enders said. “I wish I could’ve carried them further this weekend. My crew chief always tells me, ‘If you can be .020 all day on Sunday, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be able to go to the winner’s circle with the people that we have and the equipment that we have.’ Today just wasn’t our day.”

Enders also left first on McGaha, .020 to .029, but McGaha made a pass of 6.514 seconds at 212.13 mph to run down Enders’ 6.529 at 211.93 mph.

Catching up with Aerospace Component’s Kim Kussy

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Kim Kussy A biology and business degree graduate, pilot and racer who continues excelling to new heights as President and Chief Marketing and Finance Officer of racing industry staple Aerospace Components, the sky is the limit for Kim Kussy.

The daughter of a large family (she has 4 brothers and 2 sisters) raised in the Motor City, Kim Kussy has always loved the automotive industry.  The influence of her brothers and Dearborn, Michigan hometown would be evident in all aspects of her life.  She met her husband Al there, who himself grew up racing at local Milan Dragway.  As the two started their family and moved down to Florida, that love blossomed into a fast-paced life together.

Kim, who graduated from Tampa College with a degree in Biology/Medical Technologist studies and Saint Petersburg College with her degree in Business, had been working in the medical field as a medical technologist for almost 10 years when her and husband Al decided to incorporate Aerospace Components.  Initially, the business was centered around the Department of Defense, machining parts and components for defense systems, guidance systems, and the International Space Station.

Aerospace's Kim and Al KussyThe two spent several years growing the business part time, while still continuing with their full time employers.  Within a few years, the duo found themselves tied-in with the drag racing industry, manufacturing components for racers.   This allowed them to be fully involved in the sport, building the first of many racecars to develop components they created.    It was this first build that would really inspire in Kim the passion for racing, and as the business grew, that love would involve the entire family.

When Al was building his first car at Aerospace, I caught the racing bug too. Having started himself racing at age 16, he taught me how to drive the race car.  It seem like a natural passion since we owned the company that manufacture the racing parts .  Just about all of our employees race so we basically lived at the local tracks in the first 15 years of business.”

Aerospace RacingTaking those years of knowledge and experience, Kim was able to apply them to building a dragster with her daughters Breanna and Bethany, passing on this experience during their high school years as a family project.

I wanted them to know what we made and did for a living. Both girls got in the dragster and did some burn outs.”

Aerospace Components Excellence in EngineeringKim has raced the dragster herself at local tracks in the region, adding that the entire Aerospace family has been a staple in the local racing scene for over 15 years.    They have owned dozens of racecars, and are now involved in the national racing scene, sponsoring the NHRA Wally program, with the special Aerospace Components Excellence in Engineering Award.  The award, voted on by NHRA’s Technical Department, is given at 12 NHRA Nationals events to individuals or teams demonstrating a unique edge in craftsmanship or technology.    They are major sponsors for the National Mustang Racing Association (NMRA) and the National Muscle Car Association (NMCA) with the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle sponsorships and contingency programs.

Aerospace Components is approaching nearly 30 years in business, with no signs of slowing.   The process has been a rewarding one for Kussy, who loves the people she gets the opportunity to work with in the industry.  The road wasn’t always an easy one — the couple started the business at a young age, and have worked hard to build and grow over the years with a group of loyal and hard-working employees that share in the passion.  For Kim, the added struggle of proving herself as an intelligent business woman in a male-dominated industry and not just the stereotyped friendly, pretty face were ongoing in the formative years.    She credits hard work and tenacity for her success in overcoming these obstacles and mounting a successful career that defies the stereotypes.

Both industries that I am involved in are basically a men’s world — racing and aviation. Many of people don’t believe women can race or fly or run companies as the entrepreneur, sometimes women are still being stereotyped in certain areas. But I believe as a woman, if you are competent at what you do that intelligence and passion shows forth. Now that I have been in the industry for 28 years, I believe men and women respect me for how hard I work, for who I am and what I have contributed to both industries.”

General Aviator Kim KussyWith her duties at Aerospace and at the racetrack taking her all across the country, Kim does a fair amount of traveling.    But she doesn’t leave this up to commercial airlines.  Kim and Al also own their own aircraft, and Kim earned her private/instrument pilot’s license in 2000.   She is one of an elite group of women – only 6% of general aviators in the United States are women, and intends to advance her ratings as time permits.

I am very privileged and honored to be able to be among these women. It takes, a passion for flight, intelligence, courage, time and money to fly and own planes.”

With so many accomplishments to her name, it’s hard to imagine Kim having much downtime.  Yet she still finds time to support charity organizations in her community such as Women of Compassion (a non-profit that assists orphans in the state of Florida) and Shepard’s Village, a Christian organization dedicated to supporting single mothers.

I’ve been so blessed by God with my life with all that I am able to accomplish that I want to give back and help encourage the children and single moms that they can make it. I did it with God’s help and love of other who invested in my life!  …I was raised in a single parent home after 11 years old. My father died of cancer when I was in 6th grade. so my mom raised the 3  youngest by herself. I know how these kids feel in single parent homes, love and support of family and friends really matters.”

Kussy FamilyKim shared that mastering the balance between her full plate of duties for Aerospace, home life with family and raising her children, along with all of the other ventures she has pursued has been the most instrumental to her success.

DREAM BIG and don’t give up! The beginning years are some of the hardest, especially if you are married and or raising children.  Work hard and Play Hard!  Take time to rest and enjoy family and friends. Surround yourself with others you can trust, those who love you and who will encourage you during the hard times. Set goals, short term for your racing career as well as long term. Don’t be afraid to seek wise counsel from a few key leaders you trust in your industry who have walked the path you’ve walked. Attend conferences, read alot and never stop learning on how to grow stronger in your racing career.”

Kim continues to set new goals for herself and the business, whether its researching new product development, learning new marketing strategies to reach, connect and communicate with customers, or hitting the dragstrip for some racing competition.    Her latest project, Kimmy’s Garage, features educational videos on Aerospace products and installations.

AerospaceComponents-logo

Whether in the skies, at a race track near you, or in the office growing Aerospace Components, one thing is sure, the sky is hardly the limit for Kim Kussy.

Jenna Haddock picks up sponsor for Sonoma

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Les Schwab Jenna haddock dragsterAfter losing her major sponsor just one race ago, Top Fuel rookie contender Jenna Haddock will roll into the peaceful wine country of Napa Valley for the 28th annual NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Infineon Raceway, the second stop on the famed Swing, with the support from the Sonoma County Les Schwab Tires group of stores.

Les Schwab Tires, headquartered in Bend, Ore. was founded by Les Schwab in 1952.  It has grown into one of the largest independent tire dealers with over 450 locations in the country.  The Sonoma County group is made up of four locations, Windsor, managed by Rob Paulson, Rohnert Park, managed by Manny Castrellon, Santa Rosa Montgomery, led by David Lindsey and Santa Rosa Avenue, managed by Jessy Usher.

“Les Schwab’s motto is ‘doing the right thing since 1952’ and that’s everything Jenna and her husband Terry represent,” expressed Usher, spokesperson for the group.  “The hard work and devotion they put into racing exemplifies our values.  They are that one small team working hard and we were that one store that worked hard to be what we are today.  Yes, we’re a corporation but we’re family-owned and partnering with Jenna is a great way to show what we support as a company.  It’s a perfect match.”

This will be Jenna Haddock’s first time in competition at the beautiful facility and six years since her last visit.  She faces the challenge with her usual enthusiasm and exuberance that is making her a fan favorite around the country.

“I am super excited to have Les Schwab join us,” said Haddock.  “We’ve known Jessy and the group for several years.  They’ve been an associate sponsor for us and when Patriot left us, I offered them a full spot for Sonoma and they took it.  We’re a small team and losing our major sponsor was a tough blow.  So I can’t thank them enough for coming on board to help me.  We did a display at the Santa Rosa Avenue store earlier this week and we had a blast.  They are all such great people.  Two representatives from each store will be joining us at the track for the race and I can hardly wait to show them a great time.  I can’t tell you how proud I am that they have chosen me to represent them and I will do my best.”

Running a limited schedule, Jenna Haddock is currently 18th in Top Fuel points standings, attending 6 events this season.

“I love my race car and driving it and I’m excited to get to be in the car and do this for another weekend.  Because we run a limited schedule, I usually have to wait several weeks between races.  But we ran Denver last week and now I get to do it again.  We are looking to make some good runs and make some progress on our numbers.  And most of all we want to have a good clean weekend.”

Featured Driver: Ashley Huffman

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 At Ashley Huffmanthe young age of 26, Ashley Huffman has amassed the colorful resume of a seasoned veteran in Drag Racing.   Her racing career spanning 18 years, she has driven everything from Junior Dragster up to Top Alcohol Dragster, and has her sight set on returning to the TAD class for that elusive Wally.

Starting on the Ice: A Family Passion

A third generation racer, Ashley comes from a long racing pedigree.   Her grandmother Jackie and father Rick both accomplished snowmobile racers, Ashley’s first experience at competitive racing came at age 8 when she entered the kid’s class at the “Grass Drags” snowmobile race aboard a Ski Doo Mini Z.    She took second place in her first race.

…the only reason I didn’t win was because the other kid had wheels on his sled.  Competitive much? [she laughs] After that moment, I was hooked and have been racing ever since.”

Ashley continued racing snowmobiles that year, finishing 2nd overall.  The following year, she improved and took 1st place overall in the class.  Huffman’s family moved shortly after from her hometown of Saskatoon in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan to Calgary in Alberta.   Her father continued racing snowmobiles on pavement for some years, and Ashley would get her introduction into drag racing’s Junior Dragster program.  At the age of 10, her parents bought her very first Junior Dragster, which she would pilot to 16 second elapsed times in the 1/8th mile.    She won her very first race out in the class, and spent all summer at the track with her family, enjoying the sport they all loved together.

Junior Dragster to Super Pro

Ashley Huffman Top DragsterThe family passion continued on for Ashley well into her teen years in the Junior Dragster class.  At 13, she would represent Canada in the 2002 World Finals, placing 3rd overall.   She would pick up the Division 6 National Open event win in Ashcroft, B.C. in 2003, and the Medicine Hat, AB event win in 2004.  In 2005, she would finish as the series champion in the Junior Dragster points chase.    Turning 16 that year, Ashley would make the move to Super Pro for the following season, the rookie year for her in an adult class.   She would finish 2nd in overall points for Super Pro.

 I will never forget one race in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, I was 16 and I was racing in S/P for the Wally! I made it all the way to the final round, I was so pumped my first Wally final in an “Adult Car” and not a Junior Dragster.  I was in the staging lanes all belted in and my opponent came up beside me and his crew guy came over, looked at me, then looked at the name on the side of the car and yelled at his driver “YOU’RE RACING A GIRL, YOU GOT THIS IN THE BAG”! I remember my dad was pacing because he was so nervous that I heard this guy, and I did but I blocked it out and showed him that even A GIRL can win the big races and sure enough the Wally was handed to me at the end of the day! It was a very proud moment for me!”

Licensing in Top Alcohol Dragster

With such suTAD Ashley Huffmanccess throughout her teen years, the culminating highlight came in the form of a very special high school graduation gift from her parents.   17 year-old Huffman would fly down to Gainesville, Florida to attend Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School in hopes of completing the Top Alcohol Dragster Program and earning her TAD license.   The 3-day school consisted of classroom instruction, cockpit orientation and 2 days of on-track performance review.  Florida weather condensed her track time significantly, forcing Ashley to make 6 runs in the dragster in one day.   The process was mentally and physically demanding on young Huffman, who was overwhelmed by a combination of excitement, nerves and adrenaline. Less than 10% of drivers complete the requirements to satisfy the tough TAD Licensing test during the 3-day course, but Ashley defied those odds, becoming the first and only Canadian female to license in Top Alcohol Dragster.

I actually ended up doing the school  with Diana Harker and her sister Kate was there for support.  Kate already had her license at that time. It was really neat to do the school with another female racer! Frank Hawley puts on an incredible school, I learned so much from him and his team and the classroom time that I had with Frank was immeasurable! That man knows Drag Racing inside and out and taught me how to be a better driver!”

Ashley began her Top Alcohol Dragster career as a driver in 2008.  She was named the Most Improved/Up & Coming driver in 2009, and took her first win at the 2010 IHRA  Nitro Jam Rocky Mountain Nationals in Edmonton, AB, becoming the first female to ever win in the class, the first event winner from Canada, and the first blower car in the class to record a win.

I was so pumped to be racing there since it was one of my hometown tracks, the stands were full and I was ready! I ended up winning the race and became the first blown dragster to win, the first Canadian and the first female to ever win in that class and I did it all at home! I was so proud of not only myself but my entire team! It was definitely a great moment.”

Being just 21 years old, Ashley found she really had to work hard to earn the respect of racers in the series, adding that she dealt with her fair share of rumors and critics.     She didn’t let it get to her, choosing instead to let her performances on the track speak for her, earning their respect.

I definitely had to prove myself to all the racers and show that I deserved to be there just like them.  There were always RUMORS going around and some people just did not have nice things to say about me, and that’s fine. I proved myself when I was on that track. I proved that I loved drag racing and that I could compete with them and that I earned my stripes.”

2011 would be the last in TAD for Huffman, as she would step down as driver and returned to her own racing program.

Return to Family-based Racing

Ashley Huffman TDNow 26, Ashley has returned to racing in the Top Dragster class, driving the family-owned 2006 TnT Dragster with a 565”BBC in Edmonton’s Top Eliminator Club series.   The car runs consistent 7.18 second E.T.s at 190 mph.   The entire family has a hand in the race day activities, a fact that makes Ashley proud “…we either all do this together or not at all!”

I honestly could not continue in this sport without the help from my Father, Rick, Mother, Barb and Husband, Chad. They are my rock and they all play very crucial roles in our racing operations! My mom is my biggest supporter and fan and has always been there for me through the good weekends and the bad weekends. My Dad was my first crew chief and I have so much respect for him and his love of drag racing. I can guarantee you have never met a man as passionate about drag racing as my father.  He has taught me how to be a driver, and I can only hope that one day I am as good as he is.  My Husband, Chad grew up at a race track so he is no stranger to the drag strip.  He would always be at Castrol Raceway in Edmonton watching his Uncle race every weekend and now with me I have brought him behind the scenes and he is on the line right there beside me for every run! He supports me in every single way and has made every effort to learn every possible thing about drag racing”!

Ashley Huffman beyond the track

Away from the track, Ashley works as a marketing analyst for a large global oil and gas service provider.   She fills her spare time practicing yoga, adding that it helps keep her focused at the races as well.   She has the mantra “Breathe” tattooed on her clutch foot as a lasting reminder.

I do a ton of yoga, and I find that being able to find that calmness and allowing yourself to just breathe really helps when you are racing, plus you get a killer workout ;).  Regardless of what class you are racing in or how fast your car goes, drag racing is all about being FOCUSED!  If you’re not focused and in the zone you are not going to be all that successful!”

Looking to the Future

Huffman plans to continue racing her T/D program.   She and her husband Chad are in the process of purchasing the dragster operation from her parents, allowing them retire in their beautiful home in Huatulco, Mexico.

She hopes to be able to save enough for a return to the Top Alcohol Dragster class.   Ashley would love a TAD return for a chance to claim her first Wally.

I think the biggest road block for any racer is sponsorship and financials to continue travelling to all the races, entrance fees, fuel, parts etc.  One of our biggest road blocks was living in Canada and racing in the United States. Every race was at least a 12-24 hour tow.  That gets expensive really quickly.  Without the help of all of my sponsors, I would have never been able to follow my dream!”

Although sponsorship can be tough to find, especially for the costs associated to running a Top Alcohol Dragster program, Ashley remains focused and optimistic.   She adds that this is one of the most important keys to finding success as a woman in the sport.

DO NOT LET PEOPLE DISCOURAGE YOU! You can do anything that you want to do, male or female.  There are always going to be people who don’t have anything nice to say, but at the same time, there will be so many more people who stand by behind you, root for you and support you.  Keep those people close because at the end of a long hard race day when you lose a race by 0.0007 and give the stripe back, you need those people there!”

Ashley loves entertaining questions from other ladies wanting to try racing on her social media accounts.   She adds that talking to other racers and teams can really help newcomers learn the ropes and make friends in the pits.

We are all pretty friendly and love talking to other people about our race cars! I love seeing women getting into this sport and there are definitely a lot more women now than when I first started racing.”

After all, Ashley Huffman said it best herself (on the back of her Alcohol Dragster Hero Card):  “It’s all fun and games, ’til you get beat by a girl”

Feature: Staci Hunter

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One of the earliest forms of women’s involvement in drag racing dates back to the 1960’s, when the popularity and notoriety of the Back-up Girl phenomenon was born.   Today, the modern back-up girl is still an integral part of drag racing culture, and Alberta, Canada’s Staci Hunter is a pro in the game.

1-on-1 with Back Up Girl Staci Hunter

Staci HunterName:  Staci Hunter
Age:  35 years old
Home Town:  Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada
Occupation:  House Flipper / Stay at home mom

Racing Stats

How she got her start:  

Backing up Top Alchol Funny Car 11 years ago

Currently:

Back up Girl (BUG), Synoil / Exact Air TAFC
Chassis Brad Hadman
Body Roush Carbon Fibre
Engine BAE 526 ci. 3000 HP
Low E.T 5.60 @ 261 mph
Driver Greg Hunter

Honors:

 I was honored with being one of the back up girls finalist on a DRBUG facebook page.  The Synoil/ Exact Air TAFC took home a Wally in Mission B.C last Season.

Q & A

What got you interested in Racing?  How did you begin to break into the sport?

I was actually introduced to racing about 13 years ago, when Greg, (my Husband)  took me out to the shop to show me his TAFC.  To be honest, I knew nothing about the sport until I went to a race, instantly I was hooked.  I knew that racing would be a big part of my life from that moment on.  I watched Greg race a couple of times and I knew that I wanted to be more involved doing whatever I could,  My first Duty that he asked me to do, was to back him up.  I, of course, said absolutely, but don’t run me over!  LOL

What did it take to get involved as a Back-up Girl?

I don’t have any formal training in the sport. I find that listening to our crew and fellow racers, is always a great learning tool.  The thing I love about this sport, is that everyone is super competitive on the starting line, but back in the pits, everyone is like family.

What do your duties as Back Up Girl involve at a typical race?

My main responsibility at the track is making sure Greg is in the grove when I back him up. I don’t want him crashing into the wall or crossing the center line because I didn’t do my best. I also love playing hostess in our pit area by making everyone feel welcome.  We love having sponsors, fans, friends and family in our pit area. Win or lose we have a great time and want to make a memorable experience for everyone.  I also do a lot of work behind the scenes doing some of the accounting and social media updates for the team.

Back up Girl Staci HunterWhat have been some unique experiences you’ve had as a woman in the sport?

I find myself noticing how much respect and each team has for one another whether you’re male or female.   I have watched women become accepted and successful in the sport of Drag Racing.  Its also a great bonding experience meeting other women from other teams.  I am sure I have received some form of criticism. In some ways I actually expect it, being that I put myself out there.  I have no problem putting on a Halloween costume and running out onto the track to back Greg up, its all in good fun and part of the show.  I expect the odd eye roll or comment but never let it bother me.  Sometimes stepping out of the “normal” is what makes you a stronger person.  All in All, my experiences have all been positive ones.

Was there any non-racing related training you received that helped to make you successful?

I can’t believe I am actually repeating this, but I think the public speaking class that I had to take when I was in college has actually helped me come out of my shell.  Although I must admit, it was my least favorite class, at the time, and  I dreaded going to it.

Hunter Drag Racing FamilyHow does the sport/sponsors view your commitments to family?   Does it make it more difficult?   What advice would you give to moms wanting to continue a career in motorsports post motherhood?

I have two incredible kids, one boy, one girl.  Racing with children can be challenging but it’s not impossible.  When there is a will, there is a way.  We are fortunate enough to have amazing people surrounding us that are willing to help out and watch our kids during a race weekend, if we have to leave during school.  We love bringing them to the track during the summer and when school is out.  We believe that racing is a great family sport and take advantage of that when we can.  Its all about finding a great balance.

What things did you learn along the way that would be useful to another woman who is looking to start or further her career in motorsports?

Don’t let fear or intimidation stop you from trying new things.  If you love this sport, listen and learn and follow your heart to chose your role and give it your very best.  The great thing about racing is that its a Team sport and there are so many different roles that intertwine together to make it a successful team.

What are your future plans and goals?

To be the best back up girl and win, win, win! lol.   I plan on taking every opportunity that comes my way in motorsports and making them count.

 

Jenna Haddock loses sponsor

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Jenna Haddock loses sponsorJenna Haddock, the wife and new NHRA Top Fuel driver for Terry Haddock Racing just announced the departure of major sponsor Patriot Grading on her Top Fuel Dragster.

Patriot Grading & Engineering is headquartered in Fontana, California and owned by Bascom Mellon.  They joined Jenna Haddock in Denver last season at her Top Fuel debut for the Mopar Mile High NHRA Nationals, and have remained on-board since as major sponsor.    Patriot Grading is a full-service grading contractor that serves the Southern California region.    Budgetary cuts and more emphasis on regional advertising were cited as their reasons for departure.

This was a very difficult decision to make,” said Mellon, “but I’m just a regional guy.  That’s all I am and there’s no advantage for me to advertise nationally when things are tight.  It has nothing to do with Jenna; I wish her the best.  I hope someone will step up and help her so she doesn’t have a blank car in Denver.  And I’m hoping I can join her again for the World Finals in Pomona.”

Haddock plans to honor her existing commitments to associate sponsors by competing in the NHRA Western Swing as originally scheduled, as well as a few previously arranged match races between those dates.   Beyond those dates, Jenna and her team will have to evaluate their options on finishing the 2015 season.

“I want to thank Bascom, his wife Ashley and Patriot Grading from the bottom of my heart,” expressed Haddock.  “I couldn’t have realized my dream without their support.   I can’t deny that this hurts us both emotionally and financially.  But I understand that sometimes tough business decisions have to be made.  We’ve become friends with Bascom and Ashley and I will miss the special bond that we have developed.  We will remain friends and they are always welcome to join us at the races.”

Erica Enders on the Red Carpet

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Erica Enders on the red carpet at ESPY awards

 

Check out NHRA Pro Stock driver Erica Enders on the red carpet at the ESPY award show.  The NHRA Pro Stock driver traded her firesuit for a beautiful little black dress, representing the drag racing world on The ESPYS award red carpet.

Erica Enders and husband at ESPYsNominated for Best Driver ESPY

Erica was one of the 5 nominees for the Best Driver ESPY award, and the lone female driver and drag racer in the group.   Juan Pablo Montoya and Will Power from IndyCar, Lewis Hamilton from Formula One, and Kevin Harvick from NASCAR were the other honorees in the category.

Enders, who was nominated after her historical 2014 season in which she became the first woman to win an NHRA Pro Stock Championship, in thrilling and suspenseful fashion.   She took the 2014 Pro Stock Championship title on the very last run of the last race, coming from behind in the points standings and winning the last two races of the season.

Erica and Courtney Enders at the ESPYSThe NHRA star attended the event with her husband and fellow Pro Stock racer Richie Stevens, sister Courtney Enders and her father, Greg.   Parts of the prestigious ceremony, including the much-anticipated acceptance of the Arthur Ashe award by Caitlyn Jenner, were aired live on ABC.

Voting a Winner

The award allowed fans to vote for their favorites in each of the categories online from the announcement of the nominees all the way up until the day of the live show.   In the end, NASCAR star Kevin Harvick took the top honors for his first career NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship in 2014.

Harvick, meanwhile, was not in attendance.   He posted on Twitter that he had forgotten about the award show.

Representing: Keith Taube

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Here’s another Ignite Team Elite member Keith Taube sporting his Horsepower & Heels Silhouette Shirt he received with his Perk Membership package.

Keith Taube representing Horsepower & Heels

Thanks for all your support,  Keith!

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Help us get the Horsepower & Heels word out! Just pick up a Horsepower & Heels decal, or some other Horsepower & Heels merchandise from the E-Store and send us a picture!

Racing after Motherhood

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There is one saying in life that couldn’t be any more profoundly true:  Life changes after Parenthood.

A thousand people will tell you this leading up to the birth of your first, but there is no way to prepare yourself for just HOW much better life is as a parent.   It’s as if there is a magical switch that is forever flipped the instant you hold that new life in your arms.  Nothing else remotely compares…. something 20-something racing me- who lived life just a quarter-mile at a time could never have fathomed.

Erica Ortiz and Beni ZI always knew I wanted my own family.  It was something I had figured would happen after I had accomplished what I set out to do in the racing world, pausing my career long enough to put a play-pen in a toterhome someday and live out the racing family lifestyle.   But life never goes as planned, and I nearly lost all of that with some health issues during the onset of the recession, around the time that the racing project also came to a screeching halt.

By grace of God, I was able to overcome all of that, and was blessed with a beautiful son in January 2013.   The past two and a half years have been some of the most amazing and rewarding of my life, watching him grow and prosper.   The most intrinsic of virtues, the maternal instinct, is a powerful force that completely changes your entire life, your thought process, and your entire being.    My son is the center of my universe, and the most important thing on the planet to me.

But somewhere buried deep, beyond the dirty diapers, the first words (it was Dah-Dah, darn it) the first steps and all of the memories I will cherish forever, a part of my heart was in there wondering where the rest of me disappeared to, and longed to row through some gears and pull that chute lever again.   I felt conflicted, guilty and ashamed.   Because suddenly  MOM-Erica had completely replaced cool Racing/Driven/Adventurous Erica without a trace, and despite the joy my son brings me, I felt the void where that a part of me was lost.

Then, I read an article on CNN written by another mother that suddenly made me aware of what I was going through inside.   The piece was titled “I am more than a Mom”, and it was an honest and candid confession of some of the very feelings that I was experiencing, only for me they were about racing.

Racing after Motherhood: Racing Mom

Before my son arrived, racing after motherhood wasn’t a question of IF, it was a matter of WHEN.  I naively believed that life could carry on much as it was; only there would be an awesome future crew chief around to train and share my racing love with.   I envisioned my son being the future generation of my own racing dynasty, and I was eager for him to be proud of his way-fast racing Mama.    I never really understood why racing mom’s would disappear suddenly- and sometimes completely- from the driver’s seat after childbirth.    Of course, until that fateful day.

Once he arrived, I realized that my racing family dream was much easier in theory than my no-sleep having, 8-weeks recovery to walk, clueless new-motherhood self would have imagined.  During those first few months, I had a hard time thinking about what day of the week it was, much less the depth of the dish on the pistons I needed to order for the racecar.     Really, the first year and half were:  ‘What Racecar?’

But, eventually that part of my heart that stayed lost in the shadows would begin to rev its little engine again.   At first, it was just a short blip of the throttle.   But by the time my son was getting old enough to start really taking an interest in cars (he could point out a Mustang on any road before he was two- and often by just the exhaust sound) that revving had become more of a sustained redline BRAP- sitting on the limiter waiting to launch.

But You’re a MOM Now

Beni Z first nitro
Beni Z’s first Nitro!

I will never forget the first time I mentioned to family that I wanted to start putting the Horsepower & Heels Racecar back together.   They looked at me with shock and a bit of disgust, telling me “But Erica, you are a MOM now.  What about Beni?”   I instantly felt very ashamed.   I love my son more than anything, but I felt like I shouldn’t have to abandon everything about who I was in order to be his Mom.   I know a lot of people will think it’s selfish, but after reading that article and really thinking about it, I want my son to know his fearless, strong and capable Racing Mom.

I know that racing is dangerous.  Believe me, before my son, I would have driven ANYTHING- on fire, sideways, and at 300+mph if you’d let me.    The very difficult realization you have when another life depends on you for their survival, is that the danger becomes very real.    Suddenly, the thought of jumping into a 230+mph Pro Mod has some difficult depth to it- if something were to happen, it’s not just me I’m hurting.

And just like that I understood… I finally saw the reasoning, whether spoken or not, why some women disappeared from the racing world after motherhood.   In all that I do to advocate Women in Racing, one subject I never could predict would be how differently parenthood affects women.   It’s a subject that I’ve just started to scratch the surface on recently (ladies, send me your comments!).   I’ve watched with interest how it affects women in our sport, and the impact to their careers.   Ashley Force, at the height of her career, announced her pregnancy and has remained semi-retired since.   Other ladies seem to balance their motherly duties and racing with no issues.   NHRA Funny Car driver, Alexis DeJoria, summed it up well:

There are a lot of female racers out there that are moms. Shirley was a mom when she started; Shelly Payne has kids, and she raced for a long time. I think it really depends on the team you’re with and the lifestyle you live. The Kalitta organization is very welcoming. They all have kids and I felt really comfortable bringing my daughter over. As long as you can find the balance, it’s not an issue. When you’re home, you’re with your children, and when you’re at the track it’s all about racing and focusing on getting down the track safely and successfully. It’s not easy, but as long as you can find that balance, it’s definitely doable.”

More than Just a Mom

All of this led me to question the core of the issue mentioned in the article.   For women, parenthood changes their priorities, their presence in the workforce, their identity.     A book I read discussed in depth about how women’s paths in the corporate world are often dictated by their choices in procreation, and how much futher behind in the corporate ladder a mother lags behind her non-child bearing coworkers or more simply- her male counterparts.

This led me to think about my racing counterparts.   Many of my racing competitors are fathers as well.   But when their children are born, does the same guilt and shame get assigned for wanting to continue in their passions?  I am sure they too view racing a little differently once they first hold their offspring in their arms, but where is the judgement for their decisions?

I weighed heavily on the pros and cons of returning to racing.   Tears would come to my eyes thinking of my son’s life if anything were to happen to me.   But then, this EXACT feeling would surface when crossing the Sunshine Skyway bridge in the rain, or in a close-call while riding my bike, and I realized, I can’t predict or protect him from LIFE happening.

Post-Partum Racing Mom

If anything, racing for me post-partum has been a more mature, more deliberate approach.  My reckless youth aside, I am much more mindful of the balance of life now more than ever.   Where I would cast aside so much of life to pursue racing before- at all costs, I understand now the value and importance of family first, and feel more grounded and steady than ever before.   It’s a slower process, but it is also one that is safer, more humbled, and definitely more appreciated than before.

Although the days of me taking that one-way ticket, on-fire, sideways and at over 300+mph are over, there is much to be said for the new me: a Multi-tasking, patient, deliberate, able to go through 26 hours of labor, compassionate, protective, FIERCE RACING MOM.

Beni's HarleyMy son asked just a few weeks after his second birthday if he could have a racecar of his own.   When I announced my return, he can spot his Mama’s racecar rendering online.   He races die-cast Mustangs all across the living room.   He rides a strider Harley Davidson just like his Mama and Daddy.   The apple doesn’t ever fall far from the tree.   Proof positive, you can leave the racing, but the racing never really leaves YOU.   It’s in your blood, and in your heart, (and apparently in the genes now).   I’m just picking up where I left off, and preparing for the day when it’s HIS turn to show Mom what he’s learned.

To all my racing parents, past and present competitors…. how has parenthood changed YOU?    Let’s hear it below in the comments!

Representing: Tia Norfleet

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Tia Norfleet Horsepower and Heels

Aspiring NASCAR driver Tia Norfleet shows off her Horsepower & Heels

Check out the fierce custom heels of aspiring NASCAR driver Tia Norfleet.  The heels match her racing livery and even have her number on the side of them.    Tia is making waves in the racing world as NASCAR’s first female African American driver.

Learn more about Tia Norfleet at http://www.tianorfleet34.com/ and look out for more to come on this young, ground-breaking upstart.  She continues to push for more NASCAR opportunities.

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