WHITLEY LEADS THE WAY FOR FEMALES IN MOTORSPORT

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Whitley Leads The Way For Females in Motorsport

November 3, 2017

Alexandra Whitley

photo credit: Alexandra Whitley

I have Landed back in New Zealand after a very busy few days of racing and travel. I have been competing in the final of the Aussie Driver Search at Sydney Motorsport Park on Tuesday the 31st of October, to win a fully funded drive in the Australian Toyota 86 series.

I finished as the runner up. I was also the only female in from any of the competitions to make it to the final round, starting with over 800 applicants from around Australia down to the top 15.

The adventure all started back on the 25th of August, I travelled to a town very close to home called Warwick the home of Morgan Park raceway. To compete at the first round of the Aussie Driver Search I had been accepted from 800 applicants, which was quickly cut down to just over 300. It was a long and hot day. Our driving skills, car control and adaptability were tested across 3 different cars with driver coaches besides us.

First up was the BMW it was like a big go kart and I felt right at home, I had great feedback from my judge.

Next was a Nissan Pulsar turned race car and again I impressed the judge beside me with smooth gear changes and speed, finally it was my turn in the Toyota 86 which was most like a real race car and what I was striving for to win the drive in the competition. I climbed in and sat beside Steve Owen, The man with the Poker face. I had to quickly pick up another different car and style of driving. I gave it my all and asked where I could improve. Steve gave me some pointers but never hinted if he was impressed or not.

Later that day it was announced that I had made the 5 only selected from QLD for the final round in Sydney a few months later. Finally October was here, wrapping up the race at Hampton Downs in Auckland with a 2nd overall I was in a good head space and ready for the competition. The trek to Sydney began, we flew out very early the next morning.

We used the “Amaroo” circuit layout at Sydney Motorsport Park, it was short, fast and had some tricky corners. The top 15 was quickly cut into the top 9.

I sat 3rd fastest most of the session in round 2. When the judges went over the time and data I had been the most consistent all day by far and I had now made it to the top 3!! I was determined to win more than anyone else there and gave my absolute everything. It was really tricky adapting to a new car, style of driving compared to my SsangYong and learning a new track all in one. With the help of Luke King who was not only the judge for the pro competition, but also helped to mentor and give me clues throughout the day.

Although very disappointed I didn’t win the competition, I had a great time and experience through the whole process. To be the only female to make the finals I must give myself a pat on the back. The Aussie Driver Search is a great concept and I can see how many people are going to be helped over the years they continue to run it. I head into the Supercars Round at Pukekohe in Auckland, full of confidence.

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