Page 27 - Jan 2019 IWMA Nation News interactive magazine

Kaycee Mela Continued
the world. It’s such a family sport and the way it brings you together is incredi- ble. One of the best things about racing is the people you meet and the connec- tions that you make. I’ve met people over the years that I would have never met if it wasn’t for racing. They’re peo- ple that you’ll have in your life forever and can become some of your closest friends or even count as family.”
Kaycee doesn’t necessarily think being successful means winning all the time. Being successful could mean reaching goals in the sport that you’ve set for youself or even accomplishing small things you’ve been trying for. Suc- cess can mean or come in different ways for people. She doesn’t have the most wins or number one qualifiers, but she thinks she is successful in the things she
has accomplished so far. “I’m always learning each time I sit in that car and I’malwayswillingtotakeinnewthings and I think that’s what will make me suc- ceed as a driver.”
Kaycee’s car number is 7101. It was the number that was given to her. She tried to pick one of her grandpa’s old numbers, but it was currently taken.
On race day she has a necklace from a family friend, Marge Edgecombe that she gave her at the race track when Kaycee was pretty young. She wears it at every race. Marge passed away not long after giving it to her and since then she hasn’t gone down the racetrack without her “Marge” necklace on.
Kaycee wanted to add this to her story:
“I can’t thank everybody enough. I have the best and most sup- portivefamily.It’sbecauseofthemthat I’m able to continue to do this. Also a huge thank you to D’Amico Chiroprac- tic and Wyatt, Whitchurch and Ander- son, Inc. The support I receive on and off the track not just from family but from people all over is appreciated more than I can say. Not everybody finds their passion in life, or if they find it they’re not always able to live it out. I was born lucky enough to not only find my pas- sion but to be able to live it and grow with it. So, thank you so much to every- body.”
Follow Kaycee on social media at: Facebook: Kaycee Mela
Instagram account @raceekaycee
Lauren Howell
Con’t from previous page
I’d say that’s what it is to be a successful race car driver.” she shared. Her number is 304X and IHRA chose it for her.
On race day, Lauren always goes to talk to the track medical
staff because they are so extremely nice. She also drinks a lot of water so she stays hydrated and on her game.
Lauren appreciates everything her grandpa does for her. “He runs 5 cars at the track and is a super star! “I love you lots grandpa!” she said.
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