Year in Review: Rookie Season Surpasses Expectations for Girls Gone Racin’

(Val) It’s hard to believe that it’s been only eight months since we were inspired to start Girls Gone Racin’ because so much has happened in such a short time.

For those of you who don’t know already, Spring and her family invited my family to watch the Daytona 500 with them at their house back in February. I had always known she was interested in racing, but what I didn’t know was just how crazy about it she is!

While enjoying the race and the company, we started talking about how we should go to some races together this season, and how much she would love to try her hand at Motorsports photography. Sometime that day, the idea for Girls Gone Racin’ was born.

In just a few short weeks we had set up our web site, and put together a preliminary schedule of races we would like to attend. Over the coming months, that schedule would see some changes, but for the most part, we managed to make most of our original dates. The one goal we had was that we would attempt to observe some types of racing that we had never before seen. For Spring, that would be pretty easy, but for me, it was more of a challenge. Having grown up around dirt track racing, and having attended everything from Indy time trials to Stock Cars on asphalt, there wasn’t a whole lot left.

Funny how that dilemma was solved on our first night out!

Below is a list of the events we covered this year through Girls Gone Racin’ with a brief review of each one. We had a great time, and are very thankful for the support and encouragement we received along the way. Besides thanking our families, who were very patient with late-night phone calls, crazy schedules and our being gone, there are a few other folks to whom we owe our appreciation.

First, the tracks and sanctioning bodies who provided us with credentials for most of the events we attended. Thank you for taking us seriously, and for giving us such a wonderful opportunity. We were honored by the privilege.

Next, the drivers and teams who so willingly took the time to talk to us, pose for pictures and answer questions. You guys are awesome and we absolutely love you for what you do. Without your drive and passion, Motorsports would not be the greatest sport on earth.

There were several businesses who also provided their support to this endeavor. My employer, RaceFan, Inc. is first on the list, and is followed closely by Weld Racing, SPEEDtv and Intensitee Graphics. Also, our Chrysler/Dodge vehicles got us everywhere we needed to go. To Vaughn and the guys at Zeiser Dodge, thanks for keeping us rolling!

We would be remiss if we left off the track photographers who were a wealth of information and support. It is so refreshing to see the spirit of cooperation that flows among you. To those who took the time to chat and share tips, we thank you. To the rest of you, who looked at we girls like we didn’t have any business treading on your turf, smile nice and we might give you another chance next season!

Finally, there was one person without whom I probably never would have gotten the web site started, and unfortunately, he never got the chance to see how it all turned out. Gene, you may have missed the dance, but you definitely heard the music. May God bless your babies who I know must miss you terribly.

Without further ado, here is our year in review, through the eyes of Val:

April 15, ADRL Outlaw Pro Mods, Gateway Int’l Raceway:
This was our very first drag race and we really didn’t know what to expect, but it was awesomely loud and incredibly exciting at the same time. That first rushing, roaring car is a visual and audible feast we will never forget. The Jason Aldean Concert was fun too, and we appreciated having Randy along on our first night out.

May 26-27, 410 Sprint Nationals, Saint Francois County Raceway:
I went to this one with my Dad and brother, and had a good time. Despite a lower than expected car count, the racing was close and it was well worth the drive.

June 14, Winged Sprints, Midgets, UMP Late Models, I-55 Raceway:
This was Spring’s first night out at a Sprint/Midget/Dirt Late Model race and I had a blast watching her take it in. She was fearless in her quest for great pictures, and it shows. For a rookie race shooter, she did an awesome job. Our perch on top of Derek’s hauler was perfect for the night too. This is the night she got hooked on dirt track racing and there was no turning back after that.

July 8, World of Outlaws vs. All Stars Circuit of Champions, I-55 Raceway:
This was another night out for me and the boys. It was a little different sitting in the stands instead of prowling the infield, but it helped me to appreciate that perspective as well. I-55 is such a great place to watch Sprint Car racing that I am never, ever disappointed.

July 12 Grand Prix Speedways Open House:
What can we say about GPS but “Wow!” We had a ball slinging those cars around the asphalt and trying to keep up with the pack. Going through the process of training, putting on all the gear, it was very, very cool! We really appreciated the invitation and look forward to going back again one of these days.

July 29, NASCAR Busch Series, Gateway Int’l Raceway:
This was Spring’s night out while I stayed home for a change. I know she had a good time, and I love her photos, even if she had to shoot from the stands!

July 30, Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models, Tri-City Speedway:
An interesting day of fighting the heat and making new friends among the staff at the track. The racing was fast-paced and full of drama. I would definitely do it again. Watching one hot-headed driver lose his temper while the fans booed was something we won’t soon forget.

August 6, USAC Sprints and Midgets, Tri-City Speedway:
Another hot night at the track, but not quite as bad as the week before. Good, close racing and a test of my nerves when Spring edged her way close to the “danger zone” while taking pictures! She seems to have a major addiction to anything that goes fast, and Wingless Midgets became a quick favorite.

August 19, O'Reilly Sprint Bandits Ron Shuman Classic, Lakeside Speedway:
A very long day of driving up and back with racing in between. The weather held off and I enjoyed hanging with family at the track. First time trying out the new camera too, and I found out I had a lot to learn! Spring had to stay home for this one, but I hope to get her there next year.

September 3, Ted Horn 100 USAC Silver Crown Series Race, DuQuoin State Fairgrounds:
A three-generation outing, I was enthralled with the sheer beauty of the place, and incredibly pleased with the pictures I managed to shoot. This was one of the highlights of my season. Another one of those “must take Spring there next year” places.

September 8, USAC National Sprint Cars, Show-Me Racin' Series Midgets, Lucas Oil Speedway:
What hasn’t already been said about our first girls-only road trip? The company, the track, the racing, the cabin…When can we do it again?

Sept. 15, 410 Sprints and Midgets, Jacksonville Raceway:
Another great night of close racing action. Even though the track got dusty, I wouldn’t have missed this one. Did not enjoy the long, late drive back, but it was worth it! Good luck to you in retirement, Bobby!

October 7, POWERi Midgets, Belle Clair Speedway and October 8, Winged Sprints and POWERi Midgets, Tri- City Speedway:
Despite the fact that Spring was sick and I had to do this entire weekend on my own, I had such a great time that I almost felt guilty. Everyone was so nice, and I loved meeting new people. The best photos I shot this year were at Belle Clair too, and that really made me happy.

October 20, “Got Milk?” Winged Outlaw Kart Fall Nationals, Hartville, MO:
This was the absolute highlight of our season. The fun we had meeting folks, and the successful experiment of on-site photo sales made for a great combination. We loved this event because it was so family-oriented and small-town, which are two of our favorite things. We look forward to going back next year for the whole weekend.

Who knows what’s on tap for next year? We don’t have access to all the schedules yet, but you can bet that DuQuoin, Hartville and several POWERi events will definitely make the cut. Check back with us often, as we refuse to let the site get stale just because the racing season is over!