Women in Motorsport: Toni Bredinger

We had the privilege to speak to the groundbreaking female NASCAR racer, Toni Bredinger. She races in the ARCA Stock Car series in a Chevrolet ARCA SS. She is also the first Arab American female to participate in a NASCAR race. We asked her a few questions on reshaping the face of motorsport, here are her answers.

How did you get started in racing?

“When I was 9 years old my dad signed my twin sister and me up for go-karting classes at Sonoma Raceway. We immediately got hooked. The feeling of being on the track isn’t like anything else I’ve ever experienced. We spent a lot of time racing in go-karts and I felt like I was ready to step it up and try something new.”

Who inspired you to start racing?

“My dad always wanted to race when he was growing up. He loved seeing my sister and me race when we were go-karting. His love for the sport was something that inspired me to stick with it and keep pushing myself to learn and try new things on the track. Making him proud makes me really happy.”

What challenges have you faced as a woman trying to find your way in the sport? 

“Sometimes it’s a little bit lonely being a woman in this sport. There aren’t that many of us and we need to stick together and support each other. In racing, we are just as capable as men and once the helmet is on, we’re both drivers who both have the same goal.”

What are your goals behind the wheel and off the track?

“My goal is to compete in the cup series as well as Formula 1.”

What is your favorite vehicle you’ve raced?

“Chevy Camaro SS”