Features

Girls N Garages Magazine

December 29, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

Looking for an automotive magazine written especially for women? That’s what Karen Vielkind set out to find in August 2014.

After her search left her coming up empty handed, and her other lady gear head friends had no ideas either, Karen decided to take matters into her own hands, mixing her passion for cars, writing and creativity to form a new vision: Girls N Garages: a women’s automotive magazine.

One of the reasons I was looking for a magazine like what I’ve created was because I wanted to see other ladies who were interested in working on cars too, merchandise that was geared towards ladies who weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, and lifestyle type articles that were relatable for ladies in the industry and enthusiasts. I was also looking for some informational/informative articles that were fun to read that gave you basic information on vehicles but could delve into more complicated things.”

Girls N Garages Magazine

Girls N Garages started to take form in October of 2014. Karen, who works full time, poured all of her spare time into the creation of the magazine, which debuted its first issue in June 2015. The magazine features women in automotive, female project builds, technical how-to articles, and other professionals working in the industry.

Right now, the magazine is a quarterly publication, the second issue came out September 2015, and the third is due in January 2016. Readers can subscribe to receive the digital edition or have the printed edition sent to them.

Karen hopes that the Girls N Garages magazine and online community continue to grow, working its way towards making it a self-sustained monthly or bi-monthly publication. She has plans to partner with sponsors on magazine-hosted project builds and ultimately be able to provide scholarships for women seeking to enter the automotive industry.

My biggest thing is for young women and older ladies to see that working on cars/knowing some things about cars is not a bad thing and can actually can be fun. If I can get at least one more lady into the industry then I’ve done some good is my thinking. Plus, it’s about time the ladies who are into automotive get the recognition they deserve. “

International Women’s Automotive Society

October 12, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

I recently stumbled upon a fantastic new organization geared to women in the automotive industry called the International Women’s Automotive Society that really impressed me with the work they are doing, and I wanted to be sure that I shared with you. It’s definitely a MUST for Women in the Automotive world.

International Women’s Automotive Society

The International Women’s Automotive Society (IWAS) is a 501(c)3 non-profit aimed at developing a community of women to encourage, educate, assist, and create a positive impact for women in the automotive industry. It is a growing group of very passionate and talented women who are helping one another by leveraging their individual knowledge and strengths to teach and empower the group. They provide a wealth of information and resources to female automotive enthusiasts and professionals, and work as a collective to help support its membership through education, encouragement, assistance and advocacy of women in automotive.

Women of Auto Features

IWAS regularly features inspiring stories of its members that detail their personal journey in the automotive industry in their Women of Auto feature section. Each story gives an in-depth look at the life of a female in automotive, recounting her struggles, successes and future goals. They are also promoted through the sites social networks, giving added exposure to the featured member all month long.

Female Automotive Clubs

If you’re looking for a women’s auto enthusiast club to find like-minded ladies that share in your passion, IWAS has a section devoted to Female Automotive Clubs. Here you can find regional and national clubs for women in a variety of different sub-cultures of the automotive industry.

Female-Owned Business

When you’re choosing who you shop for, its always helpful to support female-owned businesses. IWAS regularly adds new female-owned automotive businesses to their Female Owned Automotive Business list. These businesses include everything from service shops, part resellers, media organizations and other businesses within the industry.

Educational Tips for Careers in Automotive

Wanting to pursue a career in automotive, but don’t know where to start? The IWAS team has put together a useful resource that details different educational paths – from technical and vocational colleges to traditional degree programs and even military training. Many of the members have earned degrees or are currently pursuing an education in automotive, and their Industry Education resource gives you access to real-life experiences and advice.

Automotive Industry Scholarships

Need help getting your automotive education? One of the most amazing resources on the site is its Automotive Industry Scholarship section. This section finds and lists scholarships and opportunities available to women in the automotive industry. They range from technical school-specific to foundation-granted general tuition awards for those pursuing advancement in the automotive industry.

Member Only Access

There are several special members-only sections and benefits set aside for IWAS members. Perks such as free magazine subscriptions to media partner, Girls N Garages magazine, a product review section to get feedback on products, exclusive Women of Automotive merchandise, and direct interaction with other IWAS members through members only groups and forums.

Join the International Women’s Automotive Society

It is free to join the International Women’s Society. Membership allows you to get involved with all IWAS events and opportunities- from educational seminars, industry events, special cause benefits, and much more. Building a community of like-minded and supportive women, you can benefit from and give back to mentorships programs, and general camaraderie with fellow ladies who have a passion for automotive. Interested parties are encouraged to fill out a membership form at Join IWAS.

There are also opportunities for companies to sponsor educational events or give tax-free donations to the organization.

Featured Racer: Tiana Berkeley

October 11, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

Racing has always been a part of Tiana Berkeley’s family life. She spent her childhood years at the racetrack watching her father race, and he grew up much the same watching his father race before him. But when she grew a little older, she surprised her father by not only taking an interest in the sport, but jumping behind the wheel and getting down and dirty.

“I have not had any [formal] training, my dad has been my coach but I taught myself how to get around the track. It was a learning experience and basically trial and error for me.”

A Colville, Washington native, Tiana Berkeley has been racing for 5 years, starting in the four cylinder ranks in 2011. She earned Rookie of the Year at Northport Raceway in the class, and went on to become the first female to win a championship in the Four Cylinder class for 2012. In 2013, she again would win the championship in the Four Cylinder class, this time at Eagle Track Raceway in Republic, WA.

After 3 years dominating the four cylinder class, Tiana Berkeley would move up to the Modified ranks, competing under the No. 45 in purple IMCA a-mod she says is a tribute to her late grandfathers.

“My car number is 45, because that is the number my Grandpa Jerry used to run when he raced. Most of the car is purple because that is the color for pancreatic cancer awareness and my Grandpa Brad passed away from it. They both passed in 2006 and I wanted the car to be a tribute to them due to the fact that they both loved racing.”

She would place third in her first year at Eagle Track Raceway in 2014 and go on to win the championship this season, remaining the first and only female to have won the championship in track history.

For Tiana, her last 5 years have filled with great experiences with the family. She graduated high school one year early to work in the family owned business, Colville Printing as a Graphic Designer. With her dad handling all of the mechanical aspects of the car (‘he’s the best mechanic a girl could ask for’ she says), Tiana is able to focus on driving, learning the ropes quickly as she moves up the ranks. But she wasn’t as well received by all of her fellow racers, adding that she encountered some unexpected animosity.

“People I have known for my entire life have treated me differently since I have began racing with and against them, and beating them makes it even worse. That has been tough since I am a very caring person and I wouldn’t expect it from them.”

Tiana Berkeley says she’s dealt with lots of tough criticism from those who believe that women should be behind the wheel of a racecar. But Tiana doesn’t want to be viewed any differently than any other driver.

“I always treat everyone the same. I use sportsmanship and hope that they will eventually accept that I won’t be knocked down due to their criticism.”

Her toughest critic though has always been herself. Wanting to improve and do better, she tends to beat herself up a lot, and can be very hard on herself after a tough event. But for Tiana, she knows that no matter the situation, she has to persevere.

“I learned that someone is always going to have something negative to say, no matter what the situation. Don’t let it get to your head. Keep pushing through and strive to reach your goals. Let the negativity be your motivation to always be the best that you can be. Racing is not just a male dominate sport, women can be successful too.”

Tiana plans to travel with the car and learn from other great drivers around the northwest, and is looking forward to learning how to drive on different surfaces and track conditions with more cars.

On the Edge with Dina Parise

September 22, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

Former Ice Capades and current IHRA Pro Mod Star Dina Parise sat down on camera for the first Horsepower & Heels VIDEO interview. She talks about her career, the switch from professional ice figure skater to the world of drag racing, her experience in the racing world, and MUCH more!

One of the most colorful female racers out on the drag racing circuit, Dina Parise is one of our favorites! She currently is the Crower Pro Mod class points leader in the IHRA Nitro Jam Drag Racing series.

Learn about Dina and her beautiful 3,000 HP 2013 Cadillac CTSV Pro Mod ‘Stella’

Carchix Women of Motorsports Calendar Contest

September 15, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

A great opportunity for women in the motorsports world: CarChix.com is hosting their annual Women of Motorsports Contest!

The Car Chix Women of Motorsports Contest is an annual online contest that recognizes women in motorsports, female racers and ladies in the automotive industry world-wide.

The contest began on September 12th and ends Saturday, September 19th. Voting is currently underway on the CarChix Facebook page. Though voting is in-progress, its not too late to submit a photo that highlights you and your vehicle of choice and is open to all women with ANY type of vehicle including, but not limited to: bikes, cars, trucks, dragsters, boats, etc.

Submit your vote in support for your favorite ladies of racing!

PRIZES:

Top 12 Ladies with the most “LIKES” will receive an exclusive invite to be featured in the Official 2016 Car Chix Calendar and will be featured every month throughout 2016.
Top 12 women will all receive a copy of the Official 2016 Calendar and official Car Chix Stickers.
The Photo with the most “LIKES” will receive a $25 VISA Gift Card & The Ultimate Car Chix Gear Package and be named the Official 2015 Women of Motorsports winner.

Winners are selected based on how many people *LIKE* the contestants photo entry in the official ’2015 Women of Motorsports Contest’ Album on the Official Car Chix Facebook Page.

HOW TO ENTER:

Submit your entry for the Women of Motorsports Contest by filling out the entry form on CarChix.com.
Your entry, it will then be added to the ’2015 Women of Motorsports Contest’ Photo Album on the Car Chix Facebook Page by CarChix staff.
Voting begins immediately. *ONLY “LIKES” ON THE IMAGE IN THE DEDICATED ALBUM WILL BE COUNTED*
See RULES and other information on CarChix.com

Best of Luck to all the Women of Motorsports!

Featured Racer: Ashley Strickland

September 4, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

Dials, Digs and Dresses- Ashley Strickland, the 23-year old drag racer, former collegiate volleyball player and pageant queen from Concord, NC shows her diversity and success in a unique blend of experiences.

Family Racing Roots

As a small child, Ashley Strickland routinely frequented the local racing circuits with her father, an avid bracket racer who competed in the non-electronics classes. She remembers vividly her father’s Lenco-equipped Dodge Daytona, which he raced consistently throughout her childhood, upgrading to a short-wheelbased Anglia. Watching her father’s racing adventures, she was eager to enter the junior dragster ranks, begging her parents to allow her to compete in the Junior Drag Racing leagues.

During Christmas when I was seven years old, Santa Claus brought me my first junior dragster! I made my first pass when I was 8 years old, and started running regularly when I was the age of 10.”

With the help of her dad, she campaigned in the Junior Dragster series for several years before moving up into “big cars” of the Top Eliminator class in 2007 at the age of 15. She entered in a few bracket races at non-sanctioned tracks that would allow her to drive under the age of 16, and did some grudge racing on the east coast. Once her sixteenth birthday arrived, she was a staple in the highly competitive IHRA Top Eliminator Class, winning three races, two runner-up finishes and several semi-final showings in her first year in the class.

Her younger brother, who makes up the other half of her Strickland Racing team, joined in the Junior Ranks as well, and the pair have benefitted from lots of coaching from Dad, who sold his racecar to focus on his children’s racing careers.

My dad has constantly given me driving lessons over the years. I have gotten endless speeches about what to do and what not to do in any given situation. I have always tried to hold an open mind and learn as much as I possibly can.”

Volleyball Scholarship puts racing on hold

The young teenager balanced her high school workload, a part time job, school athletics career, and racing with precision and determination. But her busy schedule would come to a cross road nearing her graduation, and important decisions had to be made. Ashley accepted a volleyball scholarship at Averett University in Danville, Virginia.

When I was traveling and visiting colleges, I never knew about college sports being year-round… I had always drag raced in addition to playing volleyball, and decided to hang up my drag racing for the most part as I played volleyball in college. I moved to a different state and focused on my new passion of volleyball at the time.”

This put racing on the backburner while she attended college and focused on her volleyball schedule. When her schedule allowed, she would return home to race from the end of April until the first of August. Just in this limited schedule run, Ashley won two races and made several semi-final appearances in regional races around the North Carolina area. Despite the limited schedule, Ashley still finished in the top 15 of the area’s series championship points standings.

Trading in her helmet for a tiara

While in her freshman year of college, a flyer would catch Ashley’s eye while studying for her finals. The local Miss Danville-Pittsylvania County pageant was looking for contestants, and on a whim, Ashley decided to enter. She paid her $50 entry fee, wearing one of her high school prom dresses and recruiting the help of a family friend to do her hair.

My mom, Mrs. Tammy, and my brother and I traveled up to Virginia, where I went to college, and stayed in the dorm rooms while I competed in the pageant. I knew I wouldn’t win. I had no talent, didn’t go to the gym and workout a day in my life (for the swimsuit category), and had no idea how to walk in heels and a bathing suit on stage in public. I actually “youtubed” how to accurately walk in heels and do a “pageant bikini walk”, and other pageant items.”

But winning is exactly what Ashley ended up doing, taking the overall pageant win as well as the swimsuit and interview portions of the competition. She was named “Miss Danville-Pittsylvania County”, and then went on to compete for the title of Miss Virginia, for the chance to represent the state in the national “Miss America” pageant.

She has competed in a few more competitions since, recently winning the title of The Southeast Thresher’s Queen in June, representing the Southeast’s largest Antique Farm and Tractor event in the annual Independence Day celebration. Her experiences in the seemingly polar-opposite worlds of drag racing and pageantry proved to be very complimentary, as Ashley recounts that the quick-thinking interview portion of pageants were not unlike the quick reaction and lighting sharp reflexes and thinking needed in drag racing, helping her keep cool under pressure.

During the interview portion, you have to be able to think quickly. Drag racing gave me the ability to think quick and act in an appropriate manner in order to answer all questions that were given to me, not just skirt around an answer. Though drag racing definitely did not help the part of walking in heels, I would not have been as well-rounded in the pageant world if it were not for my drag racing background.”

Returning to her love of racing

In 2012, Ashley would return home, transferring to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She would also return to her first love of drag racing, running the full schedule in 2012. She won five races, had six final round appearances, and numerous semi-final finishes. She placed in the top eight at her local IHRA track, was crowned the NHRA 2012 zMAX NHRA Track Champion, and earned a spot in the NHRA Division 2 Race of Champions in her first year competing in the NHRA. Just one thousandths of a second separated her from being named the NHRA Division 2 Super Pro Champion at her first Race of Champions appearance.

In 2013, Ashley would again land in the top 10 in IHRA Track Championship points for the season, as well as a Top 10 finish in the IHRA finals. She would move onto running Super Comp in IHRA in 2014,capture two semi-final appearances in same weekend (21 rounds of eliminations won in two days), a NHRA LODRS Division 2 appearance as well as an NHRA national event appearance in Atlanta, also finishing in the top 10 for Rockngham Dragways yearly points championship.

Ashley recently graduated from UNCC, earning her degree in Psychology, and a double minor in Biology and Women’s and Gender Studies. She works as an Account Executive at ESPN Radio in Charlotte, and coaches Volleyball in her off-time.

I still coach, and coach on the national level. Coaching allows me to still be involved in the sport, yet give me the ability to affect young girls lives and support them in ways that I wished I had received while I was playing in college. “

Racing on

Her 14 year racing career continues to thrive as well, racing her Race Tech dragster, powered by a NASCAR Dodge R5 engine every opportunity she has.

Recently, we have teamed up with Joey Arrington at Race Engines Plus for our engine design and combination. Noah and I both run a R5 NASCAR engine that is designed and built by MOPAR. It is a street legal, and NASCAR legal engine that we have put into our drag cars. It is a high-winding RPM engine that is tons of fun to drive. “

Like many racers, she feels the most difficult part of the sport lies in finding the funds to compete. Ashley has worked hard with her family to put together a team able to be competitive an offer value. Her partnerships with companies like Speedwire which helped with electronics, AED with the engine carburetor that has allowed her consistency, and many other people along the way have been instrumental to her success staying on the track.

My parents help tremendously with our racing operation. …Without money, cars would not be able to be at their best, nor would drivers be able to attend the races. As a recent college graduate, I have struggled with finances as I have been on my parent’s skirt-tail for the past several years. Now with it time to be on my own, it is a struggle.”

She has had a plethora of positive experiences in the drag racing world, but added that there are a few incidents where being a female in the male-dominated sport of drag racing have resulted in some less than sportsmanlike comments from her competitors. She shakes them off quickly.

It is a given that men do not like to be beat by a girl. …I believe anytime someone is a minority, there will be criticism. In my experience, I have always tried to take criticism and learn from it. If it is negative, I try to make it a better driver and a stronger person in general.”

She credits her parents for raising her to be a strong woman and have a strong mind-set that is able to overcome adversity and succeed in high-pressure environments. She enjoys meeting young kids who look up to her for driving a racecar, and enjoys sharing her story in hopes that it may inspire some to live their dream regardless of obstacles they may encounter. Ashley offers this advice for young, up and comers:

As a female driver, I think that it is very important that you know who you are in order to experience success. By knowing yourself, you will be able to drive better and be an all around better driver. Furthermore, learn your car. Do not rely on other people to do everything for you. Be able to diagnose problems if something were to arise with the car. Pay attention to what your car does in different situations and how your car acts at various tracks. All of this is very important when it comes to being a successful driver. “

In the future, Ashley aspires to make racing a full-time profession, adding that Top Fuel would be her ultimate dream. While she says that it may not be always a realistic goal for her personally, she would love the opportunity if it presented itself.

It seems like such an incredible rush, and it would give me the opportunity to see the country in addition to meeting endless people. I love to meet new people everywhere I go, and I feel like I have a diverse background so I am able to relate to all kinds of people, no matter age or gender.”

For now, she says that she will continue racing, and plans to do so for many years to come.

Racing is in my blood, and it is impossible to keep a true racer away from the track. I am looking forward to running a variety of races, but always excited to be on the track no matter where it is!”

Horsepower & Heels wishes you the best of luck, Ashley Strickland!

Catching up with Aerospace Component’s Kim Kussy

August 3, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

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.

The 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.”

Taking 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.”

Kim 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.”

With 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.”

Kim 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.

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.

Featured Driver: Ashley Huffman

July 31, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

At the 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

The 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 success 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

Now 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

July 29, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

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

Name: 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.

What 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.

How 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.

Featured Racer: McKenna Haase

July 8, 2015 // by Horsepower & Heels

McKenna Haase isn’t your average teenager. The 18 year-old Des Moines, Iowa native shows poise and savvy beyond her years. On the eve of her high school graduation, where she would walk at the head of her Carlisle High School class with prestigious valedictorian honors, McKenna Haase would add a historic win at century-old Knoxville Speedway to her already impressive career. Drive, passion and razor-sharp talent can all but guarantee the name McKenna etched just the first of a long list of memorable highlights for the record books.

Mall Encounter inspires Racing Career

For most young girls, a trip to the mall may inspire her growing fashion sense, but for McKenna, a chance encounter at a mall in Tennessee would serve as the spark that would ignite her racing passion.

I became interested in racing when I met Kasey Kahne in a shopping mall in Tennessee and began following racing. I also watched one of my cousins race in Oklahoma and continued to follow the sport.”

Haase’s encounter with NASCAR star Kasey Kahne so deeply impacted her that she began the difficult task of convincing her parents – who had no racing ties – to allow their daughter to participate in a sport they disliked. No easy task, McKenna names this as one of the toughest hurdles in her young career. But, after much prodding, they finally conceded and allowed McKenna to begin racing at the Karting level.

I raced at Slideways Karting Center for two years before getting my own racecar after many years of trying to talk my parents into it. I think early on my biggest roadblock was talking my parents into allowing me to be a part of a sport they weren’t very fond of. I felt like we were always arguing over whether or not I could go to the races, and then later on, get a racecar.”

Without family racing knowledge, McKenna and her father would rely on driving techniques she would pick up studying in-car camera videos and other live racing events they attended. She put these techniques to practice at public karting facilities, honing her early skills behind the wheel.

Moving up for McKenna Haase

From there, she began her trek up the ranks. Beginning in 2010, she would make quick work to the top of the Box Stock Outlaw Karts category at English Creek Speedway (Knoxville, IA). Haase would finish in the Top 3 of all the A-Main points races there, securing a top 5 A-Main finish, a B-Main win at the Got Milk? Nationals in Hartville, MO, and a 7^th place finish at the Outlaw Dirt Kart Nationals (Knoxville, IA).

In 2011, she would return to the Box Stock Outlaw Kart class, besting her performances all-around with a 3^rd place finish at the Got Milk? Nationals in Hartville, another 3^rd place finish at the Outlaw Dirt Kart Nationals, and 15 wins & 22 second place combined heat & feature finishes throughout the season. All of this resulted in a runner-up finish for the 2011 English Creek Speedway points championship.

After quick success in the Box Stock Outlaw Kart ranks, McKenna would make the move in 2012 to Restrictor/Open Micro Sprints. She would travel to a variety of tracks to compete, claiming two feature wins and 16 top ten finishes out of the 20 race schedule. She even claimed a 2nd place finish at the Warren County Speedway Nationals in 2012.

2013 would see McKenna in the running for the A-Class/Open/Outlaw Micro Sprints. Of the 16 races she entered, 14 of them were top ten finishes, with a 1^st place finish in the Tulsa Shootout heat race.

By 2014, she had graduated 305 Sprint Cars, competing in the Knoxville Championship Cup Series at Knoxville Raceway in Iowa. She claimed 3 heat wins, 5 top ten finishes in her first 7 feature starts and finished 2^nd overall, which was the highest finish from a female in the raceway’s 100+ year history at the time.

That record wouldn’t stand long, because on the eve of her high school graduation, McKenna captured her first 305 Sprint win at Knoxville Raceway, and sealed her name permanently into the record books with her historic win.

Balancing Life and Racing

With such success and dedication, it is easy to forget that Haase accomplished all of this while enrolled full-time in high school, participating in a variety of athletic sports, and maintaining a flawless 4.0 G.P.A.

Athletically, I’ve participated in a variety of other sports other than racing that has helped to keep me in shape for racing. I’ve always been a believer in having a good education and trying hard in school, and as I head to college to study finance, I’ve found that my business background has really helped me with sponsorships, marketing, and merchandise.”

The seemingly tireless McKenna spends much of her free time in the office working on the business side of her racing career, handling the marketing promotions, merchandise sales, and accounting for the team. When needed, she would also jump back into the shop to handle work on the racecar in preparation for upcoming race weekends. Yet still, she set aside time in her bustling schedule for the gym to make sure she was physically on top of her game.

Racing is a full time job both on and off the track, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

With all the attention and dedication that McKenna places on her career, it’s easy to see why the young racer has attained such early success. Her biggest obstacles have come with the increasing costs in moving her way up the ranks. But she hasn’t let anything slow her down, attributing her ability to overcome these hurdles to hard work, and a good support system. Her focus on achieving her goals is paramount, something that has helped her avoid the occasional critic.

I have received criticism in the past but have always tried to steer clear of any drama or anything that might distract me from staying focused on my goals. I’ve found it’s best to look at these situations as a way of making myself stronger and believe it’s best just to stay out of any negative conversations.”

Leading Young Women in Racing

McKenna was also recognized by the Women’s Sports Foundation, partnering with their Project Podium program.

Last year I was partnered with the Women’s Sports Foundation and Project Podium which was a really neat organization to be a part of and is filled with many women that are really inspirational. It’s always neat to see younger girls look up to me (I wish we had more in the sport), and I love hearing when I’ve inspired someone else. I like to see a female’s eyes light up when you talk about racing with them because they watched me race or something I did caught their attention.”

With experience well beyond what her 18 years might lead you to believe, she is able to offer solid advice for young women wanting to enter the sport:

I have so many tips I could share that I’ve learned along the way, but I’ll share a couple that I feel are most important.

#1- Be social- If you’re truly passionate about motorsports, be involved in as much as possible in the sport. Don’t be afraid to talk to new people, no matter their age or background, as you never know who you might meet. There are a lot of amazing people in the racing community, and I believe life’s too short to pass up the opportunity to meet a great friend or connection. Get out there and experience everything motorsports has to offer and enjoy every single second of the ride.

#2- Be genuine- No matter what level you find yourself at in motorsports, be grateful to anyone who helped you get there and never pass up the opportunity to thank them. If you are genuinely humble and grateful in motorsports, people will respect you, and it makes them feel good knowing they support someone who truly appreciates what they’ve done for them.

As McKenna Haase continues into her next life chapter, her long term goal is to drive a World of Outlaws sprint car and ultimately sees a career as a professional racecar driver for herself, wherever that may lead her. One thing is certain, we have only seen the beginning of the McKenna Haase legacy.

We look forward to seeing many more historic firsts for this young fearless female, good luck to you, McKenna Haase!