Jamie Chadwick: Driving Female Presence in Motorsports
The prominent driver Jamie Chadwick is optimistic about the future of women’s motorsport. Chadwick believes that the evolution in creating paths for women within the motor sport will continue to open doors to more opportunities, both on and off the track. The former W-Series champion, with three titles to her name, is preparing to compete this weekend in the United Kingdom. The event is part of the European Le Mans Series, which returns to Silverstone after six years. As part of the activities scheduled for Friday, students from local primary schools will participate in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) workshop at the Silverstone Museum. In addition, they will have the opportunity to try out the Silverstone Kart facilities, which are scheduled to open at the end of this year. The opportunity to witness 27-year-old Chadwick during the first practice session on the track for the penultimate round of the ELMC series will also be provided. Chadwick, who recently expanded her own all-female karting series to a junior category, hopes that events like these will inspire the next generation of drivers and engineers.The pilot highlights the significant increase in interest and participation in this type of event. Her karting series in the UK has experienced greater-than-expected interest, demonstrating the growing demand. Chadwick emphasizes the importance of broadening the perception of motorsports and showcasing the various opportunities available. More than 450 girls have participated in the Jamie Chadwick Series events. In 2024, Daytona recorded a 400% increase in female participation in outdoor karting sessions.For me, when I was the only girl among hundreds of boys at my local karting track, it wasn’t the most welcoming environment at first, but now that’s changing.
Jamie Chadwick
The pilot believes that young women feel more motivated by these changes, and that the fan base and the culture of the sport are evolving. The aim is to demonstrate the opportunities that exist in motorsport, beyond on-track driving, highlighting the different roles and important elements of the sport.It’s a great evolution of what we are seeing, the industry is changing a lot. We are seeing many more women, in different roles, which I think no longer have that male domination or prejudice that we have seen for so long.
Jamie Chadwick
