CourtesyMackena Bell
Mackena Bell of Carson City begins the 2009 NASCAR Whelen All American Series, Super Late Model season Saturday, March 21 at Toyota Speedway in Irwindale, Calif.
A 2008 Carson High School graduate, 18-year-old Bell finds herself behind the wheel of the No. 30 AC Delco ~ Position One Motorsports racecar on the 1/2-mile asphalt oval track.
Bell has been testing the 500 horsepower ride since early February and has already shown significant improvement according to Larry Nava, Bell's crew chief.
"She has surprised us," Nava said. "Based on her performance during test, I have high expectations for Mackena this year. I'm excited about her aggressiveness on the track and I appreciate her determination to do better each time she climbs in the car.
"We expect her to finish within the top-10 early in the season and think she has a good chance at Rookie of the Year."
Bell comes off a successful rookie season at All American Speedway in Roseville, Calif., where she finished ninth overall, but felt held back because of a limited budget. However, this year she has the backing of the Drive for Diversity program and experience of an established race team.
"Drive for Diversity has given me the opportunity of a lifetime and Luis Martinez (team owner) has provided me with a top-notch racecar and a great crew of guys who really know their stuff," Bell said. "All the guys have been really supportive in helping me make the transition to the larger track and I immediately felt comfortable in trusting the car to run the high line. Irwindale is all about momentum and hitting your marks. That is my focus this weekend."
With more than 30 super late models anticipated for the 100-Lap season opener, Bell, who is a dirt and asphalt track champion without question has her work cut out for her.
"My mom and dad have worked hard getting me up the racing ladder and to this point in my career," Bell added. "They have made plenty of sacrifices throughout the past 6 years and now it 's my turn to let them sit back and enjoy it. Just like all drivers starting out the 2009 season, I'm ready to get up on the wheel, take the green flag and hit the high line."
Bell will speak with David Poole and Mike Bagley live Wednesday morning about her opening weekend on the Sirius radio show, The Morning Drive.
For information visit www.position-onemotorsports.com or www.mackenabell.com.