Lyn St. James: A Pioneering Spirit in Racing
A Trailblazer on the Track
Lyn St. James is a renowned American former race car driver, best known for her remarkable achievements in the IndyCar series, with eleven CART and five Indy Racing League starts to her name. She is one of only nine women who have qualified for the Indianapolis 500, and her impressive resume boasts numerous records and accolades.
A Record-Breaking Career
St. James made history when she became the first woman to win the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year award in 1992, at the age of 45. This achievement stood as a record for 30 years, until
Jimmie Johnson won the award at 46 in 2022. Her impressive career also includes two class victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona, and a GTO class win at the 1990 12 Hours of Sebring, where she partnered with
Calvin Fish and Robby Gordon.
Endurance Racing and International Success
St. James' racing prowess extended beyond American shores, as she competed in numerous endurance races in Europe, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. In 1979, her AMC Spirit AMX team achieved a remarkable first and second place finish in class at the Nürburgring.
Founding the Women in the Winners Circle Foundation
In 1994, St. James founded the Women in the Winners Circle Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting women in motorsports. Through her foundation, she has inspired countless women to pursue careers in racing and provided valuable resources and mentorship to help them succeed.
Awards and Accolades
St. James' impressive career has earned her numerous awards and honors, including:
- Invitations to the White House to meet with Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton
- Named one of the Top 100 Women Athletes of the Century by Sports Illustrated
- Selected as one of the Top 350 Women who changed the world between 1976-1996 by Working Woman Magazine
- Inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1994
- President of the Women's Sports Foundation from 1990-1993
- Inducted into the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2023
A Lasting Legacy
Lyn St. James' remarkable career has paved the way for future generations of women in motorsports. Her tireless advocacy and support for women in racing have made her a beloved figure in the racing community. As a motivational speaker and philanthropist, St. James continues to inspire and empower women to pursue their passions, both on and off the track.
FAQ
What is Lyn St. James background in racing?
Lyn St. James is an American race car driver who has competed in various racing series, including IndyCar, IMSA, and NASCAR.
What is Lyn St. James most notable racing achievement?
Lyn St. James is best known for being the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500, which she did seven times between 1992 and 2000.
How did Lyn St. James get started in racing?
Lyn St. James started racing in the 1970s, competing in SCCA and IMSA events, before moving to IndyCar and Indy Lights racing.
What awards has Lyn St. James received for her racing achievements?
Lyn St. James has received several awards for her racing achievements, including being inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and the Women in Motorsports Foundations Hall of Fame.
What is Lyn St. James role in promoting women in motorsports?
Lyn St. James is a pioneer and advocate for women in motorsports, working to promote diversity and inclusion in the sport through her foundation and charitable work.
