What comes to mind when thinking of a girly-girl from San Antonio Texas with a background in cheerleading, music, and art? Well, it’s definitely not a passion for cars, auto racing, and Talladega. But to my friends and family, that’s exactly me. I developed this love and passion for cars and racing as a young girl. I’m currently a senior at The University of Alabama majoring in Business and Management in Automotive Racing. At a young age, I decided I wanted to try to make a career out of my passion for racing. Growing up, I attended several races from other race series but had yet to attend a NASCAR race until last spring during Talladega’s Aaron’s Dream Weekend. Not knowing what to expect of a NASCAR race, of course the stereotypes of the typical NASCAR fan popped right into my mind. Let’s just say the typical, clichéd NASCAR fan probably wouldn’t be my best friend. But that’s definitely not what the Talladega experience is like. As soon as I arrived at Talladega, I quickly came to find that the Superspeedway is a down-to-earth race venue, which is a great place to go if you’re looking to hang out with good people and have a fun time.
Also, if you are a racecar enthusiast like me, the passion for racing is far from short at the track. During the race weekend, I explored the infamous infield and the main strip called Talladega Boulevard. The Boulevard is definitely the place to hangout. I met so many people from multiple states that have made the Talladega race a tradition to come to with friends and family every year. Last spring when I was at the race, the Superspeedway held a competition for the best decorated campsite on Talladega Boulevard. It was crazy to see how creative and inventive people could be with their campsites. Also during the day, people were busy cooking up all sorts of delicious food at their campsites. I met an entertaining group of people from Louisiana that invited us over to try their gumbo. It was so yummy and some of the best gumbo I’ve had. One campsite even brought in a mechanical bull! Later that night, I got to walk around and see Danica Patrick award the trophy to the winning campsite. It was awesome to get to see Danica interacting and just chilling with fans on the Boulevard. For someone who has never been to Talladega before, I could probably best describe Talladega Boulevard to be the Alabama version of New Orleans’ Bourbon Street. There’s always a fun time happening there during the race weekend.
Looking for something to do with your college friends the weekend of May 2-4? You and your friends should definitely come experience Talladega’s Aaron’s Dream Weekend! What’s better than a weekend filled with racing, music, food, and friends?
DoubleX Speed 