photo by Travis Neale
Story by Chris Roy
Aliyah Neale, of Royalston, MA., will be racing in the #14 car in the ProWraps Bandolero Series, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. “I’ve been racing Karts since 6 years old. I think this was the next step. Besides who doesn’t want to own their own race car.”
There is no off season for racers, they just find a different car to race. “I like to go to Maine Indoor Karting in the off season. I can’t go all winter without racing! I also love to play soccer.”
NHMS looks to kick off the 2015 ProWraps Bandolero Series, season on May 16th so will Aliyah be ready for the green flag on the Mini Magic Mile? “Yes! I can’t wait!”
Aliyah will be the 1st female driver in the Bando Series at NHMS, “I really don’t think about it. I’ve always raced with all boys. I’m not a girl who races. I’m a racer. I’m a competitor like everyone else.” Though for Aliyah its racing but she will be an inspiration for other young ladies who look forward to racing in bandos at NHMS. Much like Taylor Martin, in the Sign Works Legend Series at NHMS.
The Granite State Legends Cars Shop located at NHMS is always working hard with the race teams to help get them ready for the race season, especially the new drivers like Aliyah. “Yes, Ryan (Ux), has been helpful with sign up and parts.”
Some of the drivers Aliyah raced with in karts are now veteran drivers in the bando series, at NHMS and are giving some good advice about the race track. “I know some of the drivers from racing karts with them. They have been giving me some tips.”
There is a lot of work that goes on getting the cars ready to race, working in the shop all week, hauling the car to the track, setting up the pit stall, and getting the car ready to race. “I do help out some. But my main job is to turn left.”
This being Aliyah first season in a bando it is important to get some practice to see how the car handles compared to the karts she has raced in the past. “I have. I practiced and raced at Londonderry Speedway. I try to get as much seat time as I can.”