Feature Article
 
BFGoodrich Talks With All-American Girl Racing Team Member, Beccy Gordon
November 1, 2007

Beccy Gordon

This month, “Ask the Experts” sat down with All-American Girl Racer, Beccy Gordon. She let us in on what she has been up to lately, and what we can expect to see from her in the near future.

Tell us a little about what you have been up to?

”Things have been crazy here at All-American Girl Racing. Last month we were in Barstow, Calif. to test for the MORE Powder Puff Race for the Cure. A few weeks ago I was in Phoenix filming a NASCAR commercial for the upcoming Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. I also received an invitation this week to race in the Toyota Long Beach Grand Prix Celebrity/Pro Race next year.”

The world of off-road racing is predominately dominated by males. Can you describe your experiences competing in such races as SNORE, MDR, and SCORE International Off-Road racing events?

“At first, most of the guys didn’t take us seriously and thought everything was handed to us by my dad or brother. Once they saw that we were running our team, they soon realized that we were here to compete with the same will and determination that they have. It also helped that we won our first race!”

We know you raced the SCORE Baja 1000 last year with your sister; can you describe your most exciting experience at the race?

“Finishing!!! When we crossed the line in La Paz we became the first and only all-female team to finish the “true” Baja 1000 - from Ensenada to La Paz.”

Are you building any vehicles right now, and if so tell us a bit about your latest project?

“Now, now...I can’t tell you ALL of our secrets. But, I can tell you that we have been working on a particular project for a long time. That’s all I can tell you for now, but I promise you will be hearing more about this project in the future.”

How important is tire choice in building a vehicle and in off-road racing in general?

“Tire choice is one of the most crucial decisions you need to make when you get into racing. Luckily for me, my dad made the choice to compete on BFGoodrich® tires more than 30 years ago, and proved by winning numerous times that they are the best tire in the industry. The best part about BFGoodrich is, aside from being the best tire, they care about the people that ride on them. BFGoodrich is the only tire company that offers pit support to ANY driver that is riding on its tires. When we have races that are logistical nightmares, like the SCORE Baja 1000, it’s great to be able to depend on BFGoodrich for support. When I’m racing on BFGoodrich tires, I know they are watching out for me.”

What was it like growing up in such a high-profile racing family?

“The easiest answer is that it obviously didn’t keep me out of racing. I think I’m very fortunate to come from a racing family. I honestly don’t know what my life would be like if the racing aspect disappeared. I think I’d go live in a dark hole somewhere! My family taught me a lot about other people. I’ve seen every aspect of the industry and learned that if you put your heart and soul into something you can achieve your goals. I’ve also learned that if you want something done, you’ve got to do it yourself.”

Growing up in a racing family, is off-road racing your first love? Or do you have another passion as well?

“When I was growing up I had my own sport - softball. I was the youngest member to date to play on the U.S. National Team. I also inducted softball into the Olympics (1992 Barcelona, Spain). Even though I loved softball, I can honestly say racing was, and continues to be, my passion.”

Do you consider yourself a role model for other women who want to get into professional racing, and what type of advice would you give to women who are thinking about getting into racing?

“I don’t know if I can say I’m a role model...that’s a big statement. I think the team that we have, All-American Girl Racing, gives women hope, incentive and drive to get out there and race. We’re just the pioneers of what the future of racing holds. I firmly believe women can do anything they set their minds to.“

Who is your biggest competition on the race circuit?

“Anyone who is racing on BFGoodrich tires!”



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