Kristen is a two-year veteran of the quarter mile up here in Westfield and is eagerly awaiting this coming race season. Long before she got behind the wheel of a mini sprint she was a race fan. She had followed NASCAR and outlaw-styled cars. Her first time seeing a mini sprint was when she came to Whip City Speedway as a fan.

“I couldn’t believe how awesome these cars were,” Kristen told me happily.

After seeing these cars she was hooked on mini sprints. From then on Kristen new she wanted to go racing. But before getting completely involved with racing she studied the races and followed up with questions. A year later she made the big decision to join the hard chargers in the 750cc sportsman class.

After doing a few interviews, I’ve noticed a common theme in all of them--- everyone loves dirt track racing. Before racing Kristen would go up to Lebanon Valley Speedway with her friends and watch the outlaws run. “I always loved how these cars handle on dirt, it fascinated me.” After hearing her say that, I was not surprised that she wanted to drive a sprint styled car.

When asked what she wanted to accomplish as a driver, Kristen replied that she hopes to be able to compete with the outlaws. All I could say to myself was, “Could Whip City possibly be hosting another Erin Crocker?” She feels like women need to be represented more in the racing industry and that they can compete with the boys.

The last topic that was brought up was what kind of advice would she give to new and up and coming drivers. The first reaction I got from her was, “Wow, me give advice.” After that she mentioned taking the sport seriously because it is dangerous. Kristen also recommends watching the class you plan on getting into and study the different driving styles.

“Just remember your not going to win every time,” is the best advise I think anyone could give.