How Young is too Young to Race?

I received an e-mail from Brittany asking me to forward information on the safety of junior dragsters -- something she's been hounding her father to let her try.  I can't say I'm familiar with the series so my answer was simple:  Take your father out to see these races.  Show him first hand what safety precautions are put in place. Remember that a helmet and fire suit can only help so much - and most of all, know that your father says no out of care for you and your well being. 

We are seeing children at the age of 5 start in go-karts and quarter-midget race cars -- is this too young?  I'm often asked how old I was went I decided I was a racer and car fanatic.  It's really hard to answer since when I was young Barbie only had a corvette and camper.  Nowadays Barbie - a little girls icon can drive her Ferrari, fly her own plane - and yes be a NASCAR driver.  Sources have told me that NASCAR Barbie is one of the top sellers!! I did however wait until I was in my mid-twenties before going for my racing license.  Rookies can be be 16 or 60 -- it is all based on driver ability and the love of speed. Casey Atwood 19, will be running a Dodge Winston cup car for Dodge's first year back in NASCAR.  Speculation that Atwood was chosen not for his experience but for his talent and enthusiasm. Sara Fisher at 19 is one of the youngest Indy 500 drivers  wouldn't have it any other way.  With her youth and energy she is a hot, marketable driver -- with a long racing future ahead of her.  

Although racing is not the safest sport to have your child involved in, like hockey, soccer or any other sport it takes discipline and  physical strength. What it seems to take the most of however, is MONEY.

Good luck Brittany -and hopefully we'll see you in a dragster soon.

NOTE:  The picture is Nika's first race car -- love those wheels!!!.  If any of you know how I can find another one of these please e-mail me at nika@racerchicks.com  A big thank you Mom for believing in me and my dream.