MOORESVILLE, N.C. — A teen race car driver in our state is participating in NASCAR and Rev Racing's Advance Auto Parts Drive for Diversity Combine.
What You Need To Know
- 15 drivers participated in the combine
- Cassidy Keitt started racing at age 7
- Several NASCAR Cup Series drivers are a part of the combine
Fifteen drivers competed for a full-time racing opportunity to drive next season with Rev Racing.
Cassidy Keitt, 14, is one of the participants. She was first introduced to the racing industry by her uncle at age 7.
“He is a crew chief," Cassidy Keitt said. "So we're driving down the road, and he was like, 'You wanna go in the race?' And I was like, 'Yeah, sure.' So, then we started at Middleburg Speedway in a wing cart, and it just went on from there.”
The Lexington native continues to have support from family, including her father Justin Keitt. The combine is just one of many races he’s attended to support his daughter, despite the safety risks.
“I know that all her safety equipment is going to keep her safe," Justin Keitt said. "So, I have faith in the safety equipment, and I have faith in her driving ability.”
In addition to Cassidy’s countless awards, during her summer racing at Charlotte Motor Speedway, she was named the 2022 Young Lions Winter Heat Champion at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where she tallied two race wins.
Cassidy says she is setting her sights on the NASCAR Cup Series and inspiring the younger generation.
“Don't be scared to do it," Cassidy said. "It's a lot of fun. Honestly, there aren't enough women in NASCAR in general, not even just on the track but the behind-the-scenes as well. So get at it. I promise it’s a lot of fun. It's not just a guy's sport. So, I think a lot of women have a great time doing this.”
Drivers in this year’s diversity combine were evaluated throughout a two-day event taking place in our state and Florence, South Carolina in October. The results of who made it will be announced in mid-November.
NASCAR Cup Series drivers Bubba Wallace, Daniel Suárez and Kyle Larson are alumni of the program.
