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| Macy Causey's work on the track is turning heads at just 15 years old (Photo: Brian Cleary) |
After a fast weekend in Martinsville where she became the youngest female to qualify for the ValleyStar Credit Union 300’s main field, the 15-year-old Causey jetted down to New Smyrna for the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Combine, a three-day showcase featuring some of the country's best and brightest drivers.
"The combine was great. I thought I did very well and know I had one of the fastest times of the day," said Causey. "My confidence level on being invited into the program this year is very high - I think I impressed a lot of people with not only my ability on the track but off the track during my three days there."
Causey was one of just 22 drivers from across the country invited to compete for a spot in Rev Racing's NASCAR Drive for Diversity Development program, which is renowned for providing talented young drivers with equipment, mentorship and opportunity.
Her invitation to the 2017 combine marks the second time she's been involved in the program. When the Yorktown native was invited last fall, she was the youngest participant in NASCAR Drive for Diversity history at 14 years old.
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| Macy Causey takes in some advice at the NASCAR Drive for Diversity combine. (Brian Cleary) |
Causey competes regularly in the NWAAS Late Model Series - and although she calls Langley Speedway her home track, she's seen success racing in South Boston and the newly minted Dominion Raceway this season. She believes her performance and improvements have her ready to take the next step in her career, but knows the program would take it to new heights.
"It would mean a lot (to be accepted)," said Causey. "I've worked hard these past few years in the late model cars, learning as much as I can. The opportunity to learn from (Rev Racing's) knowledge and take in what they have to offer - I think that's what will help me the most."
While acceptance into the program would be an honor - breaking down barriers is in the Causey bloodline. Her grandmother, Diane Teel, was the first female driver to compete in the XFINITY Series nearly 40 years ago. Teel has been integral for Causey's development as a driver, and she feels fortunate to have had tremendous support from her family.
"My grandmother was the first woman to win a NASCAR race at Langley Speedway. Even though times and cars have changed, I still take her advice and look up to her." said Causey. "I'm really proud to carry the family tradition - I love racing and I think it's something I'll do for the rest of my life."
The NASCAR Drive for Diversity program has helped produce some of the sport's budding stars, like 2016 Sprint Cup Chase competitor Kyle Larson as well as NASCAR XFINITY Series phenoms Daniel Suarez and Darrell Wallace Jr. It's run by Rev Racing, which is headquartered in Concord, North Carolina.
