Katherine Legge Gets Help From NASCAR’s Biggest Names as She Takes on Cup Series Battle

Key Highlights

• Richard Childress Racing provided a static simulator for Katherine Legge to familiarize with the track.
• Chevrolet offered Driver-in-the-Loop simulator time to enhance Legge’s adaptability to the Cup Series.
• Hendrick Motorsports facilitated pit practice to help Legge refine her pit stop skills.
• Kaulig Racing supported Legge to ensure she felt well-prepared for her Cup Series debut.
• Insights from AJ Allmendinger and Andy Lally were shared to assist Legge’s transition into NASCAR.

Katherine Legge’s Historic Cup Start at Phoenix Raceway

Katherine Legge’s upcoming race at Phoenix Raceway marks a remarkable moment in NASCAR history, as she becomes the initial woman to compete in a NASCAR Cup Series race since 2018. This event highlights a noteworthy milestone in the sport, with Legge taking the wheel of the No. 78 car for Live Fast Motorsports.

The team, running a limited Cup schedule this season, has equipped Legge with the resources necessary to compete effectively. At 44, the English driver brings extensive racing experience from diverse motorsport disciplines, including open-wheel and endurance racing.

Her preparation involved collaboration with several NASCAR teams, ensuring she is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Legge expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the assistance has given her the best opportunity to perform well.

As she gears up for her Cup Series debut, anticipation builds around her performance and its impact on the representation of women in motorsports.

How Katherine Legge’s Cup Debut Came Together

The expedition to Katherine Legge’s debut in the NASCAR Cup Series came together rapidly, with discussions beginning just two weeks prior at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

In her conversation with NASCAR officials, Legge was advised that starting on a road course or a short track would be ideal for her entry into the series. This guidance was essential in shaping her initial plans.

Despite the intense preparation, it became evident that coordinating all necessary elements in time for the Circuit of the Americas race was not feasible.

Consequently, the decision was made to target Phoenix as the alternative venue for her debut. Legge noted the process was marked by a high degree of intensity, highlighting the challenges inherent in such a swift change.

The choice of Phoenix offered a suitable platform for Legge to demonstrate her skills, aligning with the tactical counsel she received from NASCAR.

Support from NASCAR Teams and Drivers

Support from diverse NASCAR teams and drivers has been essential in preparing Katherine Legge for her NASCAR Cup Series debut. Her week has been a whirlwind of activity, enhanced by the guidance and resources offered by some of NASCAR’s most prestigious organizations.

Richard Childress Racing provided her with access to a static simulator, allowing her to familiarize herself with the Phoenix track. Chevrolet supplemented this by offering time in a Driver-in-the-Loop simulator, improving her adaptability to the circuit’s demands.

• Hendrick Motorsports facilitated her pit practice, vital for refining her pit stop skills.
• Kaulig Racing extended further support, ensuring she felt well-prepared.
• AJ Allmendinger, a current NASCAR Cup driver, shared valuable insights.
• Former Cup driver Andy Lally offered advice, drawing from his extensive experience.
• Trans Am Series President Andy Lally also contributed, providing tactical input.

Legge expressed feeling “super well-supported,” highlighting the collective effort behind her preparation.

“I feel super well-supported and as prepared as I possibly can be, having never, never driven on an oval like this (with) a Next Gen car.” – Katherine Legge

Katherine Legge’s Expectations and Goals for the Race

With the extensive support from NASCAR teams and drivers enhancing her preparation, Katherine Legge approaches her Cup Series debut with measured expectations. Known for her success in IMSA and participation in four Indianapolis 500s, she remains realistic about the challenges she faces.

Legge acknowledges the competitive gap, stating that finishing ahead of last place would be considered a personal victory. Her current car, she admits, lacks the capability to run at the front, so her focus is on development.

“I don’t think that we have any expectation that we’re going to go out and be competitive.”

“I think if I finish anything but last, it would be a win for us, honestly, because I don’t have the experience that any of these guys have. I don’t have the car at the moment that’s capable of going and running up in front, so hopefully we can develop me and the car and everything else at the same time and we can get there.”

“Basically finish all of the laps. I want to do a good job and minimizing mistakes because everybody makes mistakes, but I really want to minimize them. I want to stay out of trouble and show respect and prove that I belong. I think if I do those things, I think I will get the opportunity to do more.” – Katherine Legge

Legge’s goals for the race are straightforward and pragmatic. She aims to complete all laps, minimize mistakes, and stay out of trouble.

News in Brief: Katherine Legge Gets Help From NASCAR’s Biggest Names

Katherine Legge’s entry into the NASCAR Cup Series at Phoenix Raceway marks a noteworthy milestone, aided by the support of key NASCAR teams and drivers. Her path to this debut was carefully orchestrated, highlighting her resolve and the collaborative efforts behind the scenes.

As she prepares to compete, Legge’s goals remain focused on gaining experience and making a strong impression. This race represents both a personal achievement for Legge and a remarkable event in the racing community.

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