Janet Guthrie: The Race That Changed Sports Forever in Motion

Janet Guthrie was born in Iowa in 1938. She developed a passion for cars and racing at a young age, but opportunities for female drivers were limited in the 1950s and 1960s. Guthrie persevered, however, and began her racing career in sports car events. She quickly proved her talent, winning multiple races and setting records.

In the early 1970s, Guthrie turned her attention to stock car racing. She competed in the NASCAR Grand National Series, becoming the first woman to race in the top division of stock car racing. Guthrie's success in NASCAR caught the attention of team owners in the Indianapolis 500.

In 1977, Guthrie signed with Theodore Racing to drive in the Indianapolis 500. It was a major breakthrough for female athletes, but Guthrie's presence was met with resistance from some quarters. Some drivers and fans questioned her ability to compete against men, and she faced discrimination and sexism.

Speed Girl: Janet Guthrie and the Race That Changed Sports Forever [Kindle in Motion]

by Stephan Talty

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4156 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	292 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Undeterred, Guthrie focused on preparing for the race. She spent countless hours practicing on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Guthrie's dedication and hard work paid off when she qualified for the Indy 500 in 29th position. She became the first woman to qualify for the race, and her accomplishment made headlines around the world.

Guthrie started the 1977 Indianapolis 500 in 29th position. She quickly moved up through the field, and by the midway point of the race, she was running in the top 10. Guthrie's performance silenced her critics, and she proved that women could compete against men in the highest levels of motorsport.

Unfortunately, Guthrie's race ended on lap 26 when her car's engine failed. She finished 29th, but her performance had already made history. Guthrie's participation in the Indy 500 shattered barriers and paved the way for future female athletes.

In the years since her historic race, Guthrie has continued to advocate for women in sports. She has served as a mentor for young female drivers and has worked to promote gender equality in the motorsport industry. Guthrie's legacy is one of courage, determination, and perseverance. She is a pioneer who changed the face of sports forever.

Janet Guthrie Stats:

• Born: November 7, 1938, in Des Moines, Iowa
• Nationality: American
• Racing debut: 1963
• First woman to qualify for the Indianapolis 500: 1977
• First woman to finish in the top 10 of the Indianapolis 500: 1978
• Retired from racing: 1980
• Inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame: 2006

Impact of Janet Guthrie's Race

• Guthrie's historic race helped to break down barriers for female athletes in male-dominated sports.
• Inspired other women to pursue careers in racing and other male-dominated fields.
• Raised awareness of gender inequality in sports.
• Helped to change public perception of women's abilities in sports.

Legacy of Janet Guthrie

• Guthrie is a role model for women and girls around the world.
• Her story is an inspiration to never give up on your dreams.
• Her work to promote gender equality in sports continues to make a difference.

Janet Guthrie's race in the 1977 Indianapolis 500 was a landmark moment in the history of sports. Her determination and courage paved the way for future female athletes and helped to change the face of sports. Guthrie is a pioneer and a legend who continues to inspire people around the world.

Speed Girl: Janet Guthrie and the Race That Changed Sports Forever [Kindle in Motion]

by Stephan Talty

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4156 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	292 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE