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LeeAnne Young – A Trailblazer in Speedway Racing
Host: Melinda Russell
Guest: LeeAnne Young
About LeeAnne Young
- A veteran racer from Victoria, Australia, with over 30 years of experience in Speedway racing.
- Lives in a small country town with her husband, three adult children, seven grandchildren, and a great-grandson.
- Manages Gooses Autos, a family-owned mechanical business operating for over 30 years.
- Competes in Speedway and tarmac racing, holding five state titles and currently defending her Vic 1 title.
How She Started in Motorsports
- Early experiences driving as a child while sitting on her father's lap.
- Former competitive ballroom dancer with a background in state championships.
- Overcame a fear of dirt roads after surviving a fatal car accident in her early 20s.
- Joined bumper cars at Druin Speedway and later transitioned to Crash and Bash racing.
Challenges Women Face in Motorsports
- Lack of technical knowledge about cars.
- Limited female participation in track events like the Ultimate Street Car Challenge, where she was one of only three women among 82 competitors.
- Difficulty securing sponsorships beyond personal business funding.
Her Approach to Racing and Mindset
- Believes age and gender should never be barriers in motorsports.
- Attributes success to dedication, hard work, and a strong mindset.
- Uses visualization techniques, race coaching, and strategic preparation for races.
- Enjoys mentoring other women and encourages them to pursue racing despite obstacles.
Success and Legacy in Motorsports
- Views success as more than just winning races; it's about perseverance, confidence, and inspiring others.
- Wants to leave a legacy that proves racing is for all ages and that women can excel in male-dominated sports.
- Recently transitioned into tarmac racing, showing it's never too late to try something new.
Life Beyond Racing
- Enjoys gardening, traveling, and spending time with family.
- Uses social media to engage with fans and promote racing events through the Gooses Autos and Crash N Dash Drivers Association pages.
- Recently traveled Route 66 and attended the Illinois State Fair Speedway Race, admiring the patriotic culture in U.S. motorsports.
Final Advice to Women Interested in Racing
- Start now, no matter your age or experience level.
- Connect with local racing clubs and find mentors.
- Set small, achievable goals and work towards them.
- Keep racing fun and embrace challenges as part of the journey.
This episode highlights LeeAnne Young’s inspiring journey in motorsports, proving that passion, persistence, and a fearless mindset can break barriers for women in racing.
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