The First Lady of Dirt: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Racing Pioneer Cheryl Glass

Cheryl Glass was a highly promising race car driver who defied the odds as a Black woman in the sport. Despite her success, she was repeatedly injured and her racing career ended. Her story is told in "The First Lady of Dirt: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Racing Pioneer Cheryl Glass," which reveals the pressures and tragedies she faced.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The incredible, little-known story of one of the most promising race car drivers in the United States who defied the odds as a Black woman in the sport of auto racing is presented in this essay.

Early in her career, Cheryl Glass appeared to be a sure bet to become the first Black woman to compete in the prestigious Indianapolis 500. She possessed all the necessary qualities to excel in the world of auto racing. However, after suffering multiple injuries and pushing herself too hard too soon, her racing career came to an abrupt end, and the rest of her life went into a tailspin.

In his book, "The First Lady of Dirt: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Racing Pioneer Cheryl Glass," author Bill Poehler delves into the meteoric rise of Cheryl Glass in the racing world. As a child, Glass had a brilliant mind and breezed through school, graduating from high school at the age of 16. When she ventured into modeling, she quickly gained popularity and became one of the most sought-after models in the industry.

However, it was when Glass started driving race cars that she truly made her mark. She was an instant sensation, quickly becoming one of the best drivers in the sport. Poehler recounts how Glass became a pioneer in the field, as one of the few Black women in the sport, including the first to win the Skagit Speedway season finale as an 18-year-old rookie.

Despite her success, Glass's life was not without its challenges. She faced racist and sexist taunts from other drivers and fans throughout her career. She suffered major injuries, including repeated concussions. She also had frequent encounters with neighbors and law enforcement, which added to her stress and mental health struggles.

Overwhelmed by depression and mental illness, Glass committed suicide at the age of 35.

The essay features exclusive interviews with Glass's mother, friends, and competitors, providing a comprehensive account of her life and career. It sheds light on the debilitating circumstances that led to her untimely death and highlights her inspiring story as a racing pioneer.

Cheryl Glass's journey serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of Black women in the face of adversity. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, she pursued her passion for racing with unwavering determination, breaking barriers and inspiring others along the way. Her legacy continues to inspire young women and girls to pursue their dreams, no matter the challenges they may face.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538184059