Natalie Marie Decker, born on June 25, 1997, in Eagle River, Wisconsin, is a distinguished race car driver known for her remarkable achievements in various racing series. Coming from a family deeply rooted in motorsports, Decker has faced and overcome significant challenges, including rheumatoid arthritis, to establish herself as a prominent figure in the racing world. With a career marked by numerous accolades and milestones, including a historic finish in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and notable performances in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Personal Life
Natalie Marie Decker, born on June 25, 1997, in Eagle River, Wisconsin, is a prominent figure in the racing world. She comes from a family deeply rooted in motorsports, with her father, Chuck Decker, being the former owner of the Eagle River Derby Track, a venue known for hosting the World Championship Snowmobile Derby. Natalie is also the cousin of sisters Paige and Claire Decker, who are the daughters of Allen Decker.
From a very young age, Decker faced a significant health challenge. On September 29, 2019, she publicly revealed that she suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, a condition she was diagnosed with at the age of two. Despite this, she has shown remarkable resilience and determination, continuing to pursue her racing career with vigor.
In her personal life, Natalie Decker found love with fellow NASCAR driver Derek Lemke. The couple announced their engagement in December 2022. Their relationship culminated in a joyous celebration when they got married on New Year’s Eve in 2023. Their union not only marks a significant personal milestone but also symbolizes the shared passion and commitment they both have for the world of racing.
Career and Early Success
Natalie Decker has established herself as a prominent figure in the racing world with a series of notable achievements and milestones across various racing series. Her journey in motorsports began at a young age and has been marked by numerous successes and significant contributions to the sport.
Natalie Decker’s racing career began with an impressive start in karting, where she won four karting championships over two years. Her early success in karting laid the foundation for her transition into more competitive racing formats. At the age of 12, Decker began racing in 4-cylinder modified stock cars, showcasing her talent and passion for the sport.
In 2011, Decker moved up to the Super Stock class and continued to demonstrate her racing prowess. She secured the 2012 class championship at Marshfield Motor Speedway, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the racing community.
Decker’s achievements extended into the ARCA Midwest Tour, where she was named the Rookie of the Year in 2013. This accolade highlighted her skill and potential in higher levels of competitive racing.
Natalie Decker made a significant impact in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where she competed in 32 races over two years. Her best finish came in 2020 when she secured a 5th place finish at Daytona, making her the highest-finishing female driver in the history of the series at that time. Her first race in the series was the 2019 NextEra Energy 250 at Daytona, and her last was the 2020 NASCAR Hall of Fame 200 at Martinsville. During her time in the Truck Series, Decker achieved one top-ten finish.
Decker’s career in the NASCAR Xfinity Series saw her competing in 11 races over four years, driving car numbers 36 and 92 for DGM Racing. Her debut in the series was in the 2021 Super Start Batteries 188 at Daytona Road Course, and her most recent race was in 2024 at Daytona. Her best finish in the series was 18th in 2024. Despite not securing wins, top tens, or poles in the Xfinity Series, Decker’s participation and performance have been noteworthy.
Net Worth
As of recent estimates, Natalie Decker’s net worth is approximately $1 million. This figure reflects her earnings from her racing career, sponsorships, endorsements, and other business ventures. Decker’s involvement in multiple racing series, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series, has contributed significantly to her financial standing. Additionally, her championship in the Trans-Am Series and various accolades in karting and stock car racing have bolstered her net worth.
Sponsors:
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Teladoc Health
Category
Details
Full Name
Natalie Marie Decker
Birth Place
Eagle River, Wisconsin, U.S.
Birth Date
June 25, 1997
Height
5 ft 4 in (163 cm)
Weight
115 lbs (52 kg)
Parents
Chuck Decker (father), Janice Kerr (mother)
Nationality
American
Net Worth
Approximately $1 million
Relationship/Spouse
Derek Lemke
Children
None
Profession
Race Car Driver
Team
Nos. 36/92 (DGM Racing – NASCAR Xfinity Series)
Sponsors
N29 Technologies LLC, Motive CBD, Red Street Records, Four Loko, Teladoc Health