With her family having been involved in the sport, Amanda Balson spent time around Sunset Speedway, which ultimately turned into her getting a chance behind the wheel.
In 1998, Bob Phinnemore would rent his Thunder Car to her for a couple nights, which got her hooked immediately – resulting in her purchasing one for herself for the year that followed.
Now 22 years later, she is set to write a new chapter in her career with the Knightworks Design OSCAAR Hot Rods. Despite being something different, a familiar number No. 16 will be on the door panel.
“My dad started racing in the late 70’s,” she recalled. “when he was faced with choosing a number, he chose his address – 16 Murray Drive in Aurora. Since then, it’s been our family number. I’ve worn it on all my sports jerseys and race cars.”
Entering her rookie campaign, she admits the number one goal is to just go out and have fun after not competing in any events through 2020.
“I’m confident we are going to bring good equipment to the track,” she commented. “So I definitely hope to be racing up front.”
Looking at the schedule, there’s an excitement in getting the chance to run dirt in August at Brighton Speedway.
“I’m looking forward to trying out the dirt at Brighton Speedway and supporting our friends speedway owners Mark and Angie Rinaldi,” she commented. “Overall, I’m excited about all of the tracks on the schedule. Each track has special memories for me.”
For Balson, who has been involved in several different divisions across the province, the affordability of the Hot Rods helped in attracting her to the class.
“The competition also seems like it’s heating up with rumors of lots of talented drivers coming to the series, mixed in with the existing roster,” she added. “I think it’s looking like a very fun and competitive season.”
It’s why she knows going into the year, it will not be easy, with other drivers out there who can get the job done.
“I think that’s the exciting part,” she continued. “There were a few surprises last season for sure. I think you’ve got to keep your eyes on the entire field!”
With her years of experience behind the wheel, her advice to others who wish to get involved – understand the financial obligation of motorsports.
“It’s easy to go broke fast,” she commented. “Set a budget and choose a class that’s fits within it.”
Be sure to keep up with OSCAAR by staying tuned to the series website at http://www.oscaar.ca. Also, make sure to “like” the official OSCAAR Racing Facebook page, while following both the Twitter and Instagram accounts (@OSCAARRacing) to keep up to date on everything you need to know.
OSCAAR’s 2020 racing season was supported by several dedicated partners including Queenston Chevrolet Buick GMC, Knightworks Design, Living Lighting Canada, Scott Reinhart Trailer Sales Ltd., Touchwood Cabinets, Sauble Falls Campground, The Fyre Place & Patio Shop, Ohsweken Speedway, American Racer, and Grisdale Race Products.
By: Ashley McCubbin