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BEMIDJI -- Over the years, Bemidji Speedway fans have long enjoyed one or two ladies who would race at the speedway on Sunday nights. That includes now-owner and promoter Tonja Stranger, who raced in the Pure Stocks, Wissota Mod Fours and Superstock classes.
But over the last couple of years, the numbers have increased to unprecedented heights. On June 5, LVI Supply sponsored “Ladies Night” at the track, highlighting 15 female drivers who compete on a regular basis in various classes on the 1/3-mile dirt track.
The majority of the women race in the Wissota Hornet class, but Bonnie Farrington races in the Wissota Super Stock division, and Lucy LaValley and Tabatha Conkle race in the Wissota Pure Stocks.
Of the 96 cars and drivers registered on June 5, women occupied 15 vehicles -- including the youngest in 13-year-old Cejay LaValley. And these women are not just showing up to the track; they have won many heats and features over the past few years.
The interest in racing seems to be at an all-time high in the Bemidji area, and the ladies are a big part of the new class of drivers competing on a weekly basis.
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These talented women will be in action when races resume at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 12.
