Back in the summer ProFormance’s annual Women’s Track Day was a smash hit. Another two are coming, so save the date!
It was a big day for women in motorsport here in the Northwest. ProFormance Racing School held its annual Women’s Track Day last June 8th, and the smiles on the faces tell the story – it was a day of discovery, accomplishment, and most of all, driving thrills for 60 lucky women.
The day began with hands-on driving skills exercises. It continued with one-on-one instruction from the ProFormance staff. No less than 17 of our famed red-shirted instructors were on hand to help develop the talents of the drivers, some who were new to the sport, and some who were seasoned track regulars, there to show their solidarity with their sisters behind the wheel.
Women in motorsport: a growing demand
Women have always been a vital part of the ProFormance family, making an impression at courses and events of all types. They’re also an important part of the region’s amateur racing scene.
But in recent years there has been an explosion of interest from women in the sport. Nowadays the man/woman split tends to be 50-50, and it shows no sign of diminishing. The annual Women’s Track Day is a means to raise interest in the sport, honor women who are participating, and of course, provide thrills and enjoyment to everyone who attends.
A very full day
Performance driving was at the center of the last June’s event, but it wasn’t the whole show. Lyn St. James, Indy 500 driver and noted coach and motivational speaker, was booked to attend and sign copies of her book An Incredible Journey. Alas, a bout of Covid kept her away, but she did show up for an entertaining talk via Zoom, and sent along stickers with her autograph for the books that were purchased at the event.
A delicious catered lunch, a wine tasting afterwards, a swag bag and door prizes gave participants some extra memories to take home with them.
Next summer: you take the wheel!
Last June’s Women’s Track Day was such a success that ProFormance is planning two events next summer to accommodate all the people who have shown an interest. Registration will be open soon. Subscribe to our newsletter (to the right of this article) or and/or our Instagram feed to to make sure you are notified. Meanwhile, save the dates: Women’s Track Day 2023 will be Wed. June 14th and Thurs. June 15th.
As with last year, there will be gifts for all participants: t-shirts and tumblers, as well as breakfast, a delicious catered lunch, and wine and cheese to help unwind after the excitement of the event. Autographed copies of Lyn St. James’s book will again be given to participants, and Lyn herself will be attending by video conference to talk and take questions.
Women in motorsport are here to stay, and we celebrate the growing number of women who are part of this exciting sport. At ProFormance Racing School we’re proud to be the ideal place for women (and everyone else!) to start their sport driving experience and grow into seasoned, confident drivers!
Photo credits: Karl Noakes