ANDRA FASTLANE ANDRA FASTLANE ED23 | Page 36

MICHELLE ABEL racerprofi le Age 16 Hometown Darwin, NT Occupation Student Started racing 2017 Classes competed A and B junior dragster ANDRA racing highlight Being runner-up at the NT Titles Best ET and speed 7.85s and 81mph Sponsors Abel Tiling and Progrind NT What do you love about racing? Everything! The adrenalin rush, the smell, the noise, the community and all the smiles. How did you get into racing? I grew up at the racetrack, watched my dad and family friends race, and helped my siblings with their cars. I was too scared for years, but after a confi dence boost and a little help from jealousy I knew it was my turn. What do you consider as your racing highlights? I was the runner up for the 2017 NT titles, rookie of the year and JD runner-up for the 2017 Hidden Valley Track Championship. What do you love about Junior Dragster Racing? Why should others get into it? Favourite race vehicle Nitro funny car All the friends I’ve made in the past year, I wouldn’t trade them for the world. More people should get into juniors because it’s a lot of fun and you won’t regret giving it try. Favourite TV show The Checkout What is your ultimate racing goal/dream? Favourite food Chocolate cake Favourite race track Hidden Valley Drag Strip To race for as long as I can and maybe a gold Christmas tree. What do your school mates think about what you do? They think it’s awesome and most of them understood after I told them “it’s what the family does in ‘Upper Middle Bogan’.” What are your goals for the upcoming Nitro Up North event? I want to catch up with the other juniors, qualify higher, improve my reaction time and hopeful get past round one. Is there anyone you would like to thank for being part of your drag racing journey? I want to thank my Dad, my Mum, the Wood family, Nathan Coles and all of the volunteers at Hidden Valley. 36 fastlane fast Photo by Craig Radcliff e Action Sport Photography