LeeAnne Young – A Trailblazer in Speedway Racing

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.