What has this 2010 Season been like for you? Compared to last year, does the new D4D format bring new benefits and opportunities that weren't available in the past?
Absolutely! I would not be where I am today without the tremendous benefits, contacts, and support and exposure of the Drive for Diversity program!
What is the most important thing you have learned and how have you improved as a driver under this program?
I’ve learned so very much, but most importantly, I think learning more of the mechanical aspects of racing is most important. By helping to understand exactly how everything functions, I can not only help turn wrenches but also better communicate with my crew team regarding the car’s performance on track.
I’ve also gained a lot of confidence passing, and exercising patience and identifying the right moment to pass. That’s so important, and it’s not easy – you naturally want to run up front. But strategy is so important in racing, and I am really seeing that patience and planning are as important as speed.
How did it feel when you made history this July as the first women to win the Firecracker 150 at Tri-County Motor Speedway? You were competing alongside some of the best drivers in the country of the late model stock division. Were you overwhelmed with emotion … “your passion and your struggles” … when you took that checkered flag?
It was the best ever. I was so proud, and so overwhelmed with the reality that all the training, all the sacrifice, everything I had worked so hard for came together for me that night against some fierce competition. It was very emotional. I have to give credit to my team. The car was totally hooked up, they did a tremendous job. It was such a team effort, and it was so fantastic to win the checkered flag for the entire team.
How and when did you know during that race that it was going be your day to cross the finish line first?
Well, you’re never 100% certain, but we all knew we had a great car. My goal was to stay out of trouble and finish top ten, top three. But the car was awesome, and I stayed focused, patient, competitive and confident to go for the win.
What is the hardest part about pursuing a career as a professional race car driver?
Funding – no doubt. It’s so challenging in this current economy, but I never shy away from a challenge.
Tell us the inspiration for your new book being released in September: Passion and Struggle – The Megan Reitenour Story. The title certainly tells the story perfectly! How did you meet your co-Author, Greg Palmer, and what inspired you to share your personal story of passion and struggle?
It’s really a privilege to share my story and particularly have the help of someone like Greg Palmer. Greg is also the author of the book Propology 101, a guide that helps you discover your true passion is and living a more fulfilling life. Friends of friends made the introduction and thought it was a great opportunity to share an accurate account of the passion and sacrifice of someone like me giving it her all to pursue a career as a competitive race car driver. We worked together on my book to basically tell the story of the struggle my family, and everything we have been through in supporting my career in racing. It shows that anything is possible -- no matter what your situation is -- if you work hard and never, ever give up.
You have always been very involved in charities and serve as a strong champion for animal rights, Multiple Sclerosis, and Melanoma Cancer Awareness. Do you feel that racing gives you a platform you would not otherwise have to help bring awareness to these important issues?
Absolutely. With my racing career I am able to interact and communicate with so many more people and help promote awareness, educate and raise funds for causes I care passionately about. I also actively volunteer whenever I can to help make a difference in my local community.
You’ve done a jillion interviews – what is the one question no one has asked you that you wish someone would?!
That’s a great question! For those who don’t understand racing, I suppose it’s an opportunity to explain that racing is so very much more than going round and round in circles very fast. I want them to understand the adrenaline, the discipline, the athleticism that’s involved on behalf of the driver as well as the mechanical expertise and teamwork it takes to be successful. There’s nothing else like it!
What does the 2011 season look like for you right now?
2011 is going to be phenomenal – I am so excited! I have signed an agreement with Venturini Motorsports, one of the most respected programs in the ranks of NASCAR, to compete in the Pro Cup Series – pending sponsorship of course. This class of cars is much heavier and will give me the opportunity to further develop my driver skills. Venturini Motorsports also focuses on track coaching, media training, sponsor relations and core fitness levels. Their experience and expertise will help prepare me both mentally and physically as I continue to pursue my NASCAR ambitions, so I am so very excited.
How will Megan Reitenour define success?
Competing in NASCAR’s Cup Series as a contender for the Championship!
Meet Megan> Thursday, September 2nd at 7PM ET
Track Chic LIVE! on RaceFanRadio.com
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