Racing Idiot Nation is proud to present a first of many "21 Question" series! Today, we have a local female driver making waves around the short track scene.
Her name is Ericka Ray. These are her words.
What inspired you to first become a race driver?
I grew up watching my dad and uncle race at the local asphalt tracks in California. It was eat, sleep, and breathe racing for me, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Who were your role models growing up?
Definitely my dad and our local drivers. We were all very close at the track.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime away from the track?
Away from the track, I love to take photos. I took a photography class all four years of high school and would love to be able to pursue it full-time.
What do you enjoy the most about racing?
I love the adrenaline rush I get from racing side by side with other drivers, and interacting with the fans always brings a smile to my face.
How did you get started racing?
I started at the age of 15 on asphalt back in California. I begged and begged my dad to finally put me in a car, and we were able to get our hands on one. I ran asphalt for two years before COVID put a hold on everything.
What was your first race car, and how did it feel to drive it?
It was a Camaro, and it was a little terrifying. It was an asphalt car turned dirt, then back to asphalt, so it was a very unusual experience trying to learn how to drive it.
Racing is both mentally and physically draining. What are some things you do to prepare for a race?
To prepare for a race, I start drinking Liquid IV 2–3 days before race day to hydrate. I spend a lot of pre-race time by myself to deal with nerves until I get to the track and can get in the zone. I always take a look at the track and talk to other drivers to learn as much as I can.
How do you handle the pressure during a race?
I remind myself to relax so I don’t overdrive the car! Deep breaths and pep talks are frequent in my helmet.
What goes through your mind when you’re on the starting grid?
My mind races a mile a second when I am sitting in staging. This is definitely the time of the day when my nerves are at their highest!
How important is the relationship with your pit crew and engineers?
My pit crew is my family, who also happens to race the same class as I do, so it’s pretty hectic on race day. My brother and I are pretty competitive, so attitudes can flare after we get the results from the main race, but we get over it!
What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
I’d say my most memorable moments would be racing with my family. On asphalt, I had the privilege of racing with my dad and brother, but when I moved to dirt, my stepdad got involved as well. It was super awesome to experience.
Do you have a favorite track or racing circuit?
I think my all-time favorite track would have to be All American Speedway in Roseville, CA. I grew up at that track and called it home during the two seasons I spent racing asphalt. There are so many memories tied to that track.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your racing career?
I’d say my biggest challenge so far has been the criticism I get for being a female in the sport. I have mostly had great experiences, but there is always negativity from someone. It is hard to not let it bother me sometimes because I am just there to compete and be seen as a driver like everyone else, but there’s always that one person.
Who or what continues to inspire you in your career?
The younger fans are definitely my inspiration. I love walking the stands on race day and having little ones come up to me because I was once that kid looking up to the drivers. They remind me that every challenge I’ve faced was worth it.
How do you see your career evolving in the next few years?
I hope to be moving up in the dirt world or moving back to asphalt. I love the opportunity I’ve been given to get back on track in a dirt car, but asphalt is definitely where my heart is.
Are there any specific goals or milestones you are aiming for in your career?
In 2023, I was the runner-up for the track championship title, so I would love to claim the track championship one year!
Are there any other forms of motorsport you would like to try?
I would love to try drifting or off-road racing. I think both would be a great challenge, and I always love to expand my skill set.
How do you see the future of motorsports evolving?
We are already seeing more women in the sport, and I think it will become even more popular!
How important is fan support to you?
Fan support is everything to me. Their support is how I’ve been able to keep pursuing this dream.
What has been the most memorable fan interaction you’ve had?
Definitely at my home track in California! I was walking through the stands to sit with my family before the main race, and I was stopped by two little girls. I sat and talked with them for a while, and it was the moment I realized I had finally reached the position I dreamed of as a little girl.
What advice would you give to aspiring race car drivers?
My advice to aspiring drivers is to network! The more people you know in motorsports, the more help and opportunities you’ll have. I don’t stop talking to people at the track, always trying to learn and try new things. Another thing I recommend is to use social media to your advantage. Share your story online, and it will reach further than you’d expect!
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Published by Racing Idiot Nation
Nashville, Tennessee
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