"Racing is a matter of spirit not strength."
About Janet Guthrie
Janet Guthrie — Life and Legacy
Janet Guthrie, a trailblazer in the world of motorsports, made history as the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500 and the Daytona 500. Her significant contributions to racing are underscored by her fearless approach to a male-dominated sport, where she faced numerous challenges and biases. Guthrie's philosophy is encapsulated in her assertion that 'You can't be afraid to fail,' which highlights her belief in resilience and the necessity of taking risks to achieve one's goals. Guthrie's quotes often reflect her core belief in perseverance and the importance of breaking barriers. For instance, her statement about 'just trying to do my job' reveals her focus on her passion for racing, rather than the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman. This mindset not only propelled her career but also inspired countless others to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. Today, Janet Guthrie's legacy continues to resonate, as her words encourage individuals to challenge norms and embrace their ambitions. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one can have by simply daring to be different, making her insights particularly relevant in discussions about gender equality and empowerment in sports.
Quote collection
Janet Guthrie quotes
9 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"Racing takes everything you've got -- intellectually, emotionally, physically -- and then you have to find about ten percent more and use that too."
"It is a matter of spirit, not strength. It is a matter of doing your best each little moment. There's never a break. You must have desire, a very intense desire to keep going."
"Let me ask you. If someone called you and offered you a ride in the Indianapolis 500 and you were a male race car driver, would you turn the ride down?"
"There is very little in civilized life that demands everything you got intellectually, physically, and emotionally. Driving is living. It's aggressive instead of passive living."
"You drive the car, you don't carry it."
"Racing is a calling, a passion."
"I'm trying to set out the passion and complexity of this sport. Many people think it's a dumb activity: stand on the gas and turn left. In fact, it's probably one of the most complex sports in existence."
"Racing is a passion...at this level, a source of immense gratification. So the rest is no problem."