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by Camisha Miller

 

As a tribute to our wonderful race friend Anita Zwern I have had the opportunity again to sit down with fellow Dirt Diva's to gain their love and amazing memories of Anita:

Favorite memory only one with Anita by Robyn Meyers:

I will never forget showing up at Williams Grove Speedway for the first time.  I saw Anita and she had invited me to sit with her up in the backstretch grandstands.  Little did I know what I would be in for……LOL? I met some very nice people and some very drunk people and got a taste for what real competitive people are like at the track.  (At this point I was somewhat new to the racing scene and you all know I am not that competitive.  My husband doesn’t like that I am satisfied with him just trying his best….LOL) Nothing like meeting the Posse Vs. The Outlaws, but the Pennsylvanians were happy to have me sitting there with them. It was the beginning of my friendship with Anita and the beginning of having a friend to sit with at the race tracks. She would come over every night and tell me she had saved a seat for us to sit.  It is so comforting having someone close to sit with when our husbands are out risking their life to make a living. (Dirt Divas, you all know the feeling)

How do you know her: I know Anita because I met her racing in California.  She lived in California for quite some time and would always be out supporting our local tracks and drivers.  She would always come by and say hi and always had the answers and stats throughout the night when I had no idea of what was going on or how the formats worked.  

What is one word that you could describe her in: I would describe Anita as “Devoted”.  She devoted her life to racing and her friends. 

If you could write her write now a text, e-mail or even leave a phone message what would you say: I wish you were here for just one last lunch, Or one last race celebrating life with our “Bunch”. I wish you were here for one more chat, one last time to hear about your latest spat. I miss you so much, words can’t explain, but I rely on the fact that God needed you, I can’t complain. I will always remember you; I will always reminisce the times I spent with you. Your loyalty and memories will always last with WoO! - Love always- Robyn!

Shannon Saldana writes. I met Anita back in 1996 when Joey first went on the World of Outlaws Tour.  My friend Steven Gomez introduced me to Anita. It truly is hard to pick one favorite memory because I have a lot of them.  I would have to say one of my favorite memories would be when I rode with her to Pevely.  We left Pittsboro and drove the back roads through parts of Indiana until we got on I-70.  Not long after we got on the interstate she started getting upset and hollering at the semi drivers.  She would get angry with their driving (they weren't even doing anything wrong) and she said why are there so many semi's on the interstate anyway?  I just laughed and laughed and said well Anita I-70 is the crossroads of America.  I don't think she cared for my answer and she continued to get so worked up the entire trip.  We did arrive safely through and it was a memorable trip.

Best way to describe Anita: UNIQUE!

 

 

If I could leave Anita a message I would have so much to say. I guess this always the case though when you know you will never get to speak to that person here on earth again.  Anyway, I would tell Anita that I have enjoyed the many laughs and smiles she has given me.  I would thank her for her friendship and I would tell her how much I'm going to miss seeing her at the races and getting all the scoop on how qualifying times were and the lineups and finishes.  I will miss her stopping by my trailer to ask me do you have any new ladies designs.  I'm even going to miss the times she would get so upset with someone and spout out a few choice words. 

I'm truly going to miss my friend Anita and it is going to seem strange that I won't be getting a phone call or text asking if I want to do lunch with the girls.  Anita was a very special and unique person and all of those that were blessed to know her will feel the same no doubt.  I have a saved voicemail she left me just after Christmas and I have listened to it several times and it makes me very sad, but I know in time it will get easier to listen to and it will even bring a smile to my face to hear her voice.  We should all remember to let our friends and loved ones know how much we care about them because we just never know when our last day on earth will be- Love Shannon!

My Favorite Memory of Anita from Angie Hannagan: Wow, I really have more than one favorite so this is a very hard question for me to answer. So I will name a few and be very terse about it and the things that she did to make me laugh were the favorites for me. 1. Her mouse situation. Called me one night at 10:30 to come and scoop that mouse up that had expired somehow in the middle of her closet. After 2 calls and 30 minutes later I convinced her to just do it. She almost always seemed to get me into a fight if I sat with her in the grandstands at the races. I know Anita through Randy; his family has known Anita for over 20 years. She actually started out not liking me at all, over some different circumstances. However, it didn't take long before the strangest thing happened, we became really great friends. She even ended up moving 1/2 mile from us. Her reply was always the same to me and had told others her feelings on me. "I didn't like you at first but then one day I was forced to speak to you and I realized you told it like it is and I like that about you." Her words exactly because Anita was not censored, if she had something to say she did. I admire that in people.

My one word to describe her: Decided

My message to Anita would be: Dear Anita, we started out oh so rocky, but in the end we found that we were a lot alike in that we always spoke what was on our mind. For that my friend was a blessing to me. You provided me with so many funny times. Remember all the times you called Randy or me to see if we could run diagnostics on your rental cars when you were 800 miles away. I will miss the calls from when your plane would get delayed yet again. See, I told you to not fly into Chicago, I warned you about that place. And Anita, I know you can get that mouse picked up and thrown in the garbage, you can do it, I know you can. I know how much you loved food, God knows the times we actually had meals together were too many to even count. Sorry I got you hooked on Hurricane’s, which was the very last place we dined together, every time I go there I will think how much you had come to love eating there but wouldn't dare eat that spicy stuff. I will cherish every moment that we spent together and will miss your friendship. You’re deeply imbedded into my memory from the way you walked, talked and how you could somehow manage to make me laugh and be shocked to say, oh my, did you just say that. Ha-Ha! No other one will ever tell me again, Make it a great day!  Only one Anita and you will so be missed! - Love Ms. Hurricane!

Carla Rae Herrera stated: My heart is heavy imagining Anita is away from us I have searched my heart and soul and cannot pinpoint when exactly I met her, only she appeared and was a constant friend. Truly the way an Angel appears. My dearest memories would be just being there with a smile, a story, generous concern. Life is hard some days and Anita was obviously an angel...if only we could all be this was. Status was not her forte, but rather the value of her friends and her love for all things race related and those of us fortunate enough to be a part of her life. Never have I known someone dedicated to our sport and loved by so many in our sport. Anita was Sprint Car Racing’s Mascot and ambassador. A great fan was lost, but even a greater friend and woman.

I will never forget Anita and have a photo of Johnny and Steven Gomez with Anita in happier times that I shall cherish forever. My hope is we can all work together to pay tribute Anita in a fitting was. Maybe a brick at the NschoF as she would have been thrilled. All my love Anita and to all my friends who I haven't mentioned that to lately. Loving one another is what Anita would have wanted. Tell someone you haven't told in some time that you love and cherish them.

If I could write a text today I would simply say: I love you, I miss you, and please watch over us and our husbands and children our racing Angel. My heart is heavy imagining Anita is away from us I have searched my heart and soul and cannot pinpoint when exactly I met her, only she appeared and was a constant friend. Truly the way an Angel appears. My dearest memories would be just being there with a smile, a story, generous concern.

Mandy Pittman reflects: My favorite memory only one with Anita: Going to our monthly girl luncheons at Asia Wok or the Japanese Steakhouse.

How do you know her: I meet Anita while Daryn was racing on the WOO tour. She would bring me and Robyn Meyers the time trial results at the merchandise trailer and then save us seats so that we could run up in the stands watch the races and return to the merchandise trailers!

What is one word that you could describe her in: UNFORGETTABLE!

If you could write her write now a text, e-mail or even leave a phone message what would you say: You are missed more than you know!! You truly are a special person! –Love you-Mandy

Favorite memory only one with Anita from Jan McMahan: Oh my goodness I have so many. Lots that she made me laugh until I cried. But I think one memory that stands out in my mind with her is when Paul was racing the #20 Bass Pro car for TSR and I was in my little T-shirt trailer and was very busy with a line at my window. She came walking up through everyone propped her elbow up on my counter and said "Well, Paul really sucked qualifying! He looked like real Sh*t!"  I couldn't help but laugh at the way she bluntly put it. I loved her for that!

What is one word that you could describe her in: UNFORGETTABLE

If you could write her write now a text, e-mail or even leave a phone message what would you say: Hey Anita! I just wanted you to know that I love you! I can't begin to tell you how my life was better because God put you in my path. I can't begin to thank you for all of the laughs you have given me over the years and for all the updates at the races. We will ALL miss you and we will see you again. - I love you- Jan!

 

Anita was truly a wonderful person who always made me laugh, and it is my honor to talk with the entire fellow Dirt Diva’s to put something together to remember her by.  I had the pleasure of meeting her years ago when I toured with the WOO and she always kept me up to date on how things were going on and who was who because I was busy working. She loved one of my favorite home tracks in Beaver Dam, WI used to be known as Powercom but is now Charter, and this year I will miss not being greeted by her in person when the WOO return there but I know she is always with us and is the staple of a DIVA!!-I Love you and we will always remember you Anita- Love, Camisha Miller

 

 

 

One-on-One With Angie Hannagan:

 

How did Randy & You Meet:

 

It was at Attica, Ohio at an All Star race. I remember thinking who is this guy with the big rig? I had my Yorkie pup with me that night and he reached over to pet my dog and my dog snipped at him. Actually I think he was more interested in the Yorkie! Over the next few months we had several long chats and eventually we both realized that we were soul mates and nothing would keep us apart. That was 8 years ago this coming April.  I came from a die hard, non-wing racing family, so the simple fact that I was at a winged show was a feat in itself. I have been told everything happens for a reason, I believe that whole heartedly.

 

What is your favorite race track:

 

Eldora, I grew up in Greenville, Ohio. My Grandparents fielded non-wing sprint cars for many great drivers and Eldora is a place I have been to more times then I could possibly count. Ironically Eldora is one of Randy’s favorites too. He’s had several wins there since we met in both the 410 and 360 sprints-I love it more when he wins!!

 

What do you do for a living:

 

 I deal in liquidation sales and estate sales. I buy items for pennies on the dollar and turn around and sell them mainly on eBay. There are several people that I sell goods for as well-mostly antiques. I will sell anything I can make money on. From toilet lids to toasters, if it’s a good deal I buy and sell it. Currently I am working on becoming a personal trainer and getting my nutrition certificate. I need to constantly be running around with my hair on fire or I’m not living.

 

Through all of Randy’s terrible family tragedies- how was racing a part of that, good or bad:

 

I can honestly say I have never met anyone that has had more family tragedies then the Hannagan Family. It’s all been so sad in what I would call a good way (he would strongly disagree), is that much of Randy’s resources, financially have been removed. Where he would have never drove for someone else before, he started to do that and it’s been a really fun year of racing this year. He teamed up with Dennis Yoakam out of Ohio this year and won several races as well as the NRA Championship. For the first time in a few years we had a lot of fun racing. As for the bad……Nothing, we try to remain positive at all times. We are both very strong personalities so nothing and no-one will get us down. Giving up is never an option it only makes me fight harder. If I gave up that makes me a quitter and that word is not in my vocabulary.

  

Who is your favorite driver & it can’t be your husband:

 

Sammy Swindell!! When I was young my parents occasionally would take me to the Kings Royal, and it was the only winged races I had ever been to.  I liked the guy they hated the most. He seemed to get booed quite a bit, therefore I always cheered for him. After I met Randy he informed me that Sammy was a huge part of his racing success. Sammy sort of took Randy under his wing and to this day Randy looks up to Sammy and how he does things. I’d say he patterns his way of doing things like Sammy taught him to do. In light of that, I have a lot of respect for Amy Swindell. She stands by her husband/son no matter what and she’s been criticized by some. In the end how can you find fault in a wife for standing by her husband and defending him? Some wives have found a way to stay out of the mix. Those are the sweet gals who are loved and adored by all. I have and will continue to stand by Randy. Bottom line is, it may be my husband involved but at the very least, it affects my life just as it does his.

 

How active are you with his racing:

 

I am very active with his racing. I encourage him to race as much as he can. He has a passion to race, and I have a passion for racing. I want him to be able to do what it is that he loves to do. I love it as much as he does, just in a different way. Like a few other wives, we were born into this sport. At times that is a bad thing, I would like to be able to sit back without having an opinion but it’s hard to when your whole life has been spent with a racing family and your very in tune to what is going on. We actually bounce a lot of stuff off of each other and constantly talk about racing in our house. There are times that you get that look after the feature event and you know you should keep your mouth shut but you don’t and then it’s on. Randy has, on a number of occasions, offered me his seat and steering wheel!!J

 

Do you miss traveling full-time for racing:

 

I can honestly say I don’t miss it one bit. We did that for 3 years when our son, Mason was just a baby and it was fine. Now he’s in school and if Randy were traveling full time he would miss a lot of firsts with him. What I do miss is some of the awesome places we’d visit each year. I think Randy is happy racing the schedule he does now, which enables him to be home during the week. I hope he doesn’t choose to go back out full time but if he decided he needed or wanted too, we’d make it work and I’d stand behind him 100%.

  

Your favorite motto to live by:

 

From one of the people I admire in the world, Jillian Michaels. “The worst advice I ever got was to be diplomatic, because it compromised my authentic truth. Don’t fight this, don’t stand up for that; be a good girl; don’t be a troublemaker – bleep you!” Anyone that truly knows me knows this defines my personality. I am not scripted, not diplomatic, but always brutally honest.

 

Favorite memory with Randy’s racing:

 

All of the hours we spent traveling on the road are my favorite memories, because we created memories that will last a lifetime. A particular race was his World of Outlaw win at Tulare shortly after his mom passed away and a week after him, and I finally got married in Las Vegas. I was at home and screaming so loud the pitch of my voice knocked a picture over.

 

What makes you a Diva:

 

I actually looked up Diva in the thesaurus to find a different/defining word that would classify me in the Diva category. Prima Donna is the actual definition. I’d say Prima Pain at times, never a Diva. Maybe from the outside I appear to be a diva.  I’m very simple, very low maintenance.

 

 This is a very personal interview to me because of the serious accident that occurred in July with me- this is my first interview since that time, and it has only been four months, and I am typing and able to put this together- I am extremely blessed! Randy and Angie have been wonderful through this whole thing sending prayers for me to heal and get better, and keeping up with my progress. I appreciate Angie taking the time to do the interview and they have been long time amazing friends of mine- I have even spent long days at their shop and house when I traveled with the Outlaws. I wanted to take time also to thank everyone who has been praying for my family and me through this accident- it really means a lot to all of us, and I am extremely blessed again to be heavily involved in the racing community- as you know they all come together when they need too and they did for me, and I have faith they will continue too!

 

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One-on-One with Amy Tatnell

How did Brook and you meet? We met in 1991 shortly before the Knoxville Nationals. It was his first trip to

America to race and he was with his Dad George. He had a really bad crash I can remember saying what are we

doing letting these Aussie come and run here at Knoxville all they do is tear up! ha! Little did I know I would end

up with one.

Will your children race? If they want to... we will support both of them in the sports they choose and not push

anything on them. Our daughter wanted to take dance class last summer and not being a "dance mom" I

supported her and took her to class not my choice of sports.



What differences if any are there between racing in Australia vs. Here? Yes, there are a lot of differences

between American and Aussie racing. I think the biggest for me is we don't have the conveniences that we do

here in America. We can stay in our motor home here until Brooke goes out on the track here in America and in

Australia we are pretty much on our own in the stands or in some cases we are lucky enough to sit in the

corporate facilities like at the Classic which is very nice. I think racing in Australia is more like it used to be here

years ago where most of the teams hang out together and it's not as corporate as America as made it today. I

could go on and on about this question....the hot dogs are a funny color and taste terrible, dim sims are

something you don't serve at a racetrack and when you ask for a hamburger with "the lot" you get the entire

lot!!!! and when you want a corn dog you better ask for a "pluto pup" again I could elaborate on this all good of

course nothing against me Aussie mates. I think that Australians do a fantastic job of promoting races like the

Classic, its an unbelievable weekend of racing and the meet and greet and all the corporate facilitates they have.

We could take a few lessons in the States from the Aussie's on promotion.

Your favorite race track? I have a few but I really like Spencer, Iowa the Clay County Fair in 1979 I can

remember my Dad and Wolfie put on one of the greatest races I have ever watched and my Dad beat Wolfie that

day it was awesome. It was really nice to go back there when the WOO returned I have lots of fond memories of

being there with my Family as a child and I was happy to share those memories with our daughter. The best

Aussie tracks I love Warrnambool, Victoria and Speedway City in Adelaide, South Australia.

Biggest accomplishment you feel your team has? In 2010 we won 2 Outlaw shows and that was a big

accomplishment considering the very small budget we had. We won the first one at Knoxville and the other at

McCool Junction, NE. It was awesome for Brooke and the #59 Team to win the Outlaw show at Knoxville but we

started on the front row and most people said that that's the only reason he won. When we won the 2nd one at

McCool Junction we started in like the 3rd row and and I was listening on dirt-vision and I remember thinking to

myself a top 5 would be impressive tonight and it was almost 1am and getting up to listen to the rest of the race.

What an accomplishment considering Brooke had to decide if we even had enough in the race account to get

there we also had problems with our truck on the way there. No one can take that one away.

What are the plans for this season? We are racing the #59 car owned by Tom and Sherry Leidig this year and

are happy to have on board as a partner Ray Evernham. When we are not running the #59 car we plan to do

some select races with the #14 360 car owned by John Nelson (Protofab Engineering) out of Blaine, MN. I also

Plan to show our horse (American Saddlbred mare) that we have raised for the past 4 years and also return to

some running races and hopefully a triathlon sometime this summer.



What makes you a diva? I certainly don't consider myself a "Diva" I am a mother, wife and I love sprint car

racing!! not sure if that qualifies as a "DIVA" Its funny when you asked me to do this I was volunteering at our

church for a funeral and I said WOW what a title "Church lady" by day and Dirt Diva by night!! HAHA

How do you handle owning your own team? What part do you have in it? We do not own the #59 but we do

run the operation out of our very small shop here in Forest Lake. I do the handle most PR and also the

merchandise and day to day operations the important stuff you know like making the lunches!!

Your motto you live by? Don't tell me what to do!

**I also handle a lot of the behind the scenes at the Jerry Richert Memorial race. We are in our 11th year

of the race and it continues to grow each year. Our Family (Richert's) hold it each year the second week

of September at Cedar Lake Speedway. It is one of the only races in the Midwest consisting of an all

sprint car show 410's and 360's. I grew up racing with my Father racing and towards the end of his

career my brother (Jerry Jr.) started his career and continued the tradition. I often wish that I would have

gotten the opportunity to race a sprint car and it is the one thing in my life that I have never done and

will do one day. I am an avid sprint car history buff for sprint car racing in the Midwest.

I got to know Brooke while I worked for the WOO and I was able to travel “down under”

for my job with them and he was a great host and made sure we all understood what

certain things meant and what types of food we were going to eat! I met Amy at the

Nationals a few years back listening to the band after the races and Brooke and her

have an amazing connection it was inspiring to be with them and watch how much

respect they both have for each other even after a bad night of racing. They both are

great ambassadors for the sport and Amy you are a DIVA not only by the night!!

 

 

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One-on-One with Danelle Cottle

How did you and your husband meet? At the races, I will explain in the other question :)

 What is your favorite racing memory? I love thinking back to the times when I used to race. It was a family event to hop in the suburban and head to Ohio. I loved listening to all the stories my dad, Uncle Dick and family Friend Clifford Stephens would share, while my mom and aunt would be singing to the Oldies on the radio. Good Times, for sure!

Do you or have you ever raced? Yes, I did. I was in my 3rd year of running mini sprints and it was Shane's first year. The first time we raced together, I was in a nasty accident. I spent a week at Methodist. During my hospital stay, Shane sent me flowers and well wishes. I don't remember anything about that day so I was interested in finding out who he was. Since it was the middle of the season, we had someone else drive my car to finish out the year. I went to help out on the car. Before the races started we ran into each other and made small talk. I didn't talk to him again until the racing banquet that winter. They had a DJ and Shane asked me to dance. During that dance he leaned over and kissed me. I was shocked. I didn't know whether to punch him in the nose or kiss him back. I gave him my number and we maintained a long distance relationship for 7 years before we were married. That first kiss was 20 years ago :)


Where do you see non-wing sprint car racing in 5 years? That's a good question; we can only hope things continue in our favor as race fans.


What are your racing plans for next season? Shane will be running the 10E sprint car for Monte Edison, Daryl Saucier's 1st midget, and Kenny Baldwin's #5 silver crown car.


What makes you a diva? For me a Diva isn't about being pretty or having sex appeal. It is the way you carry yourself, your smile lighting up a room, and extending your kindness to others. A true Diva doesn't crave attention. It comes on its own when others are drawn to you!

 Your favorite race track? Kokomo, why? 1. I have been going there since I was in diapers!  2. It is only a few miles from our house!  3. It offers the BEST dirt track racing in the country with some of the best drivers every single week!  4. We think the O’Connor’s are great people!


Your least favorite race you have been at? I'm not real big on pavement races, they scare me! All though, I do love the Little 500

 

What advice would you give out to those families just starting out? If you don't support each other, it will never work. Be prepared for everything to revolve around racing. Our wedding, the kid’s birthdays, vacations, even Christmas with family has all been planning around the racing schedule. When the kids were babies, we had a motor home so I could take them with us. Now, I don't get to go to very many races because our kids are involved in so many sports. You have to LOVE the sport to understand and if you understand then you are in for an awesome experience. You will have a new family, a racing family for life!


 

I have had the privilege to watch Shane race several times, and I have enjoyed meeting Danelle along the way.  She is her husband’s biggest fan you can certainly tell that by watching a race with her, and I wish them the best of luck this season.  She is right on with her Diva response and she is one of the kindest most genuine people I have ever met J

 

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One-on-One with Barb Eisentraut

 

 

How did Rob and you meet?

I knew Rob's brother Dave first. Dave had a huge b-day party one year and a friend of mine and I went. There was this guy who was taking money at the door and I instantly fell in love!!!!! He called me the next day and we've been together ever since and that was in March 1994. We officially hit 14 years of marriage on the 3rd of August.

What is the best thing people should know about Rob and RC Custom Design?
There isn't just one thing. Rob is a very honest, creative man who prides himself on everything he does. Whether it is a 4 x 6 picture to vinyling a race car you can be sure he's happy with the quality before the customer ever gets it.


How much involvement do you have in the business now?

I recently have come back into the business whole heartedly. Together we are coming up with new products to sell at the table under the grandstand. We are expanding our vinyl stickers also. I still don't really have much to do with the photography side of it except for ordering.

Who is your favorite driver?

Being a business who deals with all race drivers and their family and fans, I really shouldn't answer that. lol!!!! (GOOD ANSWER but you could have said the #15M sprint car driven by Justin Miller- LOLJ)

Do you like to take photos like Rob does?

I have a small digital camera that I take for like trips to the park and stuff like that, but otherwise I let Rob take all the photos!!!!

How to you manage your work- family- Rob's business when he is gone and being at the races every weekend?

I have a calendar that I would be lost without. I have it color coded. Rob, Simon and I each have a color. Everything is written in my calendar otherwise it doesn't exist. Even the bills have a color...LOL!!!!

What makes you a DIVA?

I really don't think of myself as a diva. I am wife and mother who is very dedicated in seeing that all their dreams and goals come true.

What is your favorite track?

I would have to say Plymouth because that’s where most of the time is spent.

What makes you the most nervous at the track?

Rob makes me the most nervous. He stands so close to the edge of the track as the cars are racing by. I am so afraid that one day I will see him hit by a racecar.

Do you a motto that you live by you want to share with others?

When things get rough or I have a bad day I just remember that “God will only give you what you can handle.”

I got to know Barb really well this year as RC Custom Design is a sponsor of our High Flyers Motorsports team, and I truly adore their son Simon.  Simon and are “buds” and every time we may have to go to pick something up from their house- it is not argument that I actually want to go along!  Barb sat next me this year at Dodge County at an IRA/MSA sprint car show and I laughed so hard that night at how cute those two are texting back and forth while he is out in the middle of the infield shooting photos-and she yelled at me when I told her where he actually was shooting from since she did not want to know- then she would be less nervous watching him!  They love each other dearly, and we are lucky to call them our dear friends and thank them for all of their help this season too! Visit: www.rccustomdesign.com  

 

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One-on-One with Erica Meyer


How long has your dad raced?

My dad has been racing since 1989, so about 20 years.

 

How is it to work at all of the different tracks?
Working at all the tracks we go to, whether it be selling 50/50 or working the IRA t-shirt trailer it’s a blast. You meet so many different race fans whether it is a sprint car fan or even a late model fans, you get so many kinds of people. I have gotten a new found respect for late model racing just from going to the Masters in Cedar Lake and talking to their fans while selling 50/50. They ask you questions, and you ask them, and you learn something new at every track about anything, sometimes it’s not even about racing. Plus doing this, you also get to see the die-hard fans of the IRA which is always nice to see who supports our series.

 

What is your favorite track?
 I definitely don’t have just one favorite track. I like Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wi because the facility is just spectacular. I love the speed the cars get and the racing is just awesome. And there is also the plus that dad always seems to have a good run there and the people there are nice people. Dodge County Fairgrounds is another favorite track. It is just a fast half mile that gives you chills when you watch sprint cars are on it. Others are Eldora, Elko Speedway, and Seymour. 

 

Who is your best friend you gained from racing?

I never really did gained a “best friend” from racing. I gained more of a whole family rather than friends. When I was younger and it was almost a weekly event every weekend at Beaver Dam, there was a group of wives and kids that sat in the corner right by the grass on the big hill. It consisted of the Dodd’s, the Meyer’s and the Roe’s, and we all looked out for each other. Then as us kids grew up, we started working the t-shirt trailer. There were five of us, Jessica Dodd, Nathan Roe, Mike Uttech, Amanda Warm and then me. Then when Darrell Dodd and Joe Roe stopped racing with the IRA, I continued to do the t-shirt trailer when the Tennyson’s took over. But I never really had a best friend; I just gained a “summer family.”
 
Do you want to race?
When I was younger it was always my dream to take dad’s car and drive. When Jessica Dodd and I were younger and watching our dad’s race, we always said she was going to have the 11D and I was going to have the 85M car. Then our moms always said our cars would be pink and purple and all girly. And the driving suits and everything would match the cars. Then when Erin Crocker was in the World of Outlaws, she was my all time idol, I wanted to be her. I mean if I had the chance one day to hop in a car and see what I could do, HECK YES I would take the opportunity, but as for now I much rather watch dad race.

 

Who is your favorite driver besides your dad?

 Besides my dad, that’s a tough one. I only say that because I know a lot of drivers between World of Outlaw, IRA and the regulars at the Plymouth dirt track. I like Kasey Kahne, before he went to Nascar. I have a picture actually of him winning a Gumout series race. Then there is Scotty Neitzel, he’s been a family friend since day one. His wife, Brendalee, and him have always been there for my family. Kim Mock, Joey Saldana, Brooke Tatnell are on the top of the list as well. I will say Craig Schueffner is my favorite late model driver at Plymouth though. 

 

What is one thing you want people to know about your dad?
When I first read this question, I really had no idea what I was going to put but as I thought about it, it became quite easy.  My dad is and always will be my hero. I know that’s a typical answer from any daughter who has a dad like mine. To people, he is shy, quiet and intimidating but I never see it. He has the look but not the attitude. But I will say this, don’t make him mad. I’ve already seen an incident at Deer Creek where dad threw the steering wheel out of the car as soon as the A-main was over. I have never seen him get that mad before and it takes a lot to get him mad and to yell. 

 

How is traveling with your mom-sister- dad- a lot in the summer- does it get old?
Traveling with my parents and my sister during the summer does get old after awhile. When it’s a two or three day weekend and it includes a long road trip, it gets annoying really quick. When we owned the semi for traveling, Beth and I would have to be separated because we just fought constantly, but what sisters don’t fight. But it’s not always annoying, when we stop for lunch on long road trips the crew usually doesn’t get out of the truck anymore. If were at Subway, our usual stop most of the time, they all tell me the kind and I just go into order it. And like most families and crews, you get the interesting conversations going about whatever you can think of.

 

Favorite moment with your dad racing and outside of racing.

I guess my favorite moment with my dad racing is on the way home from certain tracks, when I get the privilege to sit up by him as he drives home and we just talk. Whether it’s about how the night went, or what is happening the next morning or what we could have done better, whenever I got the opportunity to sit up front and spend quality time with him while everyone else slept is the best. Also I can say on Sunday mornings, ever since I got my licenses, when I would go up to the shop and we would wash the car together. It was just our time. We crank up the radio, talk and wash the car.  Outside of racing, I really can’t say what my favorite moment with my dad outside of racing is because the subject of racing lives within our family year around. I guess I could say when he comes home from work on those late nights and we didn’t save him dinner so I would cook him something and then we sit at the kitchen table and talk and I play secretary for the business and fill out paper work and sign him up for auctions or whatever.   
 

What are you doing now- major in school, etc?
 As for what I am doing now, I graduated last year from Howards Grove High School and now have almost completed my first full year of college at University of Northwestern Ohio in Lima. I’m studying for Marketing and Public Relations. My plans are to take the degree and hopefully apply it somewhere in motorsports. Other than that I’m just trying to have fun while I’m out here. Meeting new people, keeping in touch with family and friends from high school, and trying to succeed in getting a better education are my goals for out here. Also I have been exploring new tracks that people only dream about seeing. I finally have gotten the chance to see the “Big E” and Limaland and hopefully one day I can make the road trip across Ohio and see some of the Pennsylvania tracks. I have been going to the races since I was six months old, so I kind of have racing in my blood. My dad has won a total of five times and I have only seen him win was his first one when I was six at Beaver Dam. Now being in Ohio I make it home to see him race as much as I can but it’s still not enough I feel like I’m missing out!

 

 I got the chance to really know Erica this year at Dodge County Fairgrounds.  She was sitting in front of us and she was a riot the whole night she made me just as nervous for Steve as she was.  We laughed about it after and if she could have funneled her energy to her dad it would have been great because she has a lot of it!  He ran awesome that night and she was so proud- it was an amazing sight to see for me personally.  I can appreciate her perspectives and being close with her dad- my dad is my best friend and I count my blessings everyday he is active in my life and with our race team.  I would not love racing as much as I do or it would not be in “my blood” if it was not for my dadJ  He is the greatest!

 

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One-on-One with Misha Geisert

Program Manager

Tony Stewart Racing

True Speed Communication

 

Job Description: Misha oversees the day-to-day business for Tony Stewart Racing’s World of Outlaws Sprint Series teams and USAC National Sprint & Silver Crown Series teams.   She also works with Tony Stewart during his ‘extra-curricular’ racing events, as well as some of his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events.

 

Drivers:  Tony Stewart, Donny Schatz, Steve Kinser, Levi Jones, Bryan Clauson &

Jessica Zemken



How long have you been involved in racing?

 

I’ve been involved in the sport on a professional level since I completed an internship at what is now O’Reilly Raceway Park (ORP) in Clermont, Ind., during my junior year of college. I had been a race fan since my childhood but my interest in working in the industry really developed when I was around the age of 13. It was around the time that the USAC ‘Thunder’ Series was popular on ESPN when and I discovered that you could make a career out of the sport I loved. Originally, I wanted to be an on-air commentator, but as I got into college, I really began to enjoy the marketing and public relations side of the industry. I’m not one to enjoy being the center of attention – I get satisfaction from planning and executing projects. I realized I didn’t enjoy being on camera while in college and changed my focus. During my senior year, I was also awarded a ‘Rich Vogler Memorial Scholarship,’ which I was very excited about.

 

After my internship at ORP, I was fortunate enough to begin working with Larry Nuber. He was one of the original ‘Thunder’ series commentators and handled the Wynn’s Racing program, which included the legendary Steve Lewis No. 9 USAC National Midget team. The Wynn’s program also included teams that competed in the NHRA Funny Car and Top Fuel Series, as well as the ASA Racing series. I started working as an assistant to Larry during my senior year of college, handling event planning, public relations and various other tasks for him. He passed away not long after I graduated very unexpectedly and I assumed his role with the Wynn’s program. Unfortunately, the brand moved away from the racing industry later that year and I moved into the next chapter of my career.

 

Following my time with Wynn’s Racing, I worked for a couple of different agencies and did some freelance work in what was then the Indy Racing League. During this transition period, I worked as a freelance journalist for The Kokomo (Ind.) Tribune writing various motorsports features.  I also spent a few months at Charlotte Motor Speedway working in the public relations department. In 2003, I was offered a position with the Mopar division of Chrysler through the brand’s agency of record, J.R. Thompson Company (JRT,) which is located in Michigan. My first role with the brand was on the public relations end of the spectrum and I worked with the ‘Team Mopar’ entities in the NHRA, USAC, World of Outlaws Sprint & Late Model Series and Formula D Series.

 

In 2005, I was moved into the role of program manager for the Mopar brand. I oversaw the motorsports programs under Michael Smith at JRT and Kevin Miller, who at the time was the Senior Brand Manager for Mopar. He’s since moved into a new role as the president of USAC. I was able to learn another skill set during my time as the Mopar program manager, as I began working in the management sector. During my time with Mopar, I worked closely with the Tony Stewart Racing teams, in addition to teams within the Don Schumacher Racing, Allen Johnson Racing and NuFormz Racing organizations.

 

In late 2006, Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) announced that they would be switching their open-wheel programs to the Chevy brand. After conversations with Tony Stewart, Eddie Jarvis and others within Tony’s management team, I was offered a position with TSR. I began my new role as the public relations contact with TSR in January of 2007. It was an easy transition, as I knew the team and drivers from working with them during my time with Mopar. I was very flattered that Tony had the confidence in me to offer me a position within his organization and I’m very glad that I made the decision to become part of TSR.

 

 

When Stewart-Haas Racing came to fruition in 2008, I transitioned into the role of program manager for TSR. I oversee the day-to-day operations (along with TSR’s race director, Jimmy Carr,) for our USAC and WoO Sprint Series programs, as well as work with Tony on his Dirt Late Model, modified and open-wheel events. My role with the team also includes working as part of the True Speed Communications staff, which is a turnkey public relations firm also owned by Tony. In addition to overseeing the Ms. Eldora program, I am also involved with Eldora Speedway and its larger events, including the Prelude to the Dream. I’m also part of the IMIS Trade Show management team and work within several other aspects of entities that fall under the True Speed Enterprises umbrella. (True Speed Enterprises is the parent company for Tony Stewart’s business portfolio.)

 

What started out as a little girl’s dream has become a reality and I know that I’ve been blessed to be able to make a career in the sport that I love. I would’ve never thought that sitting in the stands at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at my first Indy 500 I would be where I am at this point in my career.

 

 

How is working for Tony Stewart Motorsports (your favorite and worst part of the job)?

 

I absolutely love my role as part of the Tony Stewart Racing team. No two days are ever the same and I love the constant change and challenges. I believe that in racing, you can never have too much experience or know too many people – it’s all about relationships. You should constantly be striving to meet the next goal, to take your program to the next level. The group of people that I have the privilege of working with every day is unbelievable, to have that much talent around you gives you the opportunity to constantly grow and improve your skill set. I don’t know that there is really anything I would change about my role – some people think that I’m off my rocker for the amount of work hours I put in but if you love your job, it doesn’t seem like work. People outside the sport don’t always understand that this isn’t a hobby – racing is a way of life. You have to be 100% all-in for it to work. I may give up a lot in their eyes, but in my eyes, the sacrifices I make allow me to do some of the coolest things. It’s definitely a lifestyle and I wouldn’t want things any other way.

 


Where did you attend college? What is your degree in?

 

I graduated from Indiana State University, which is located in Terre Haute, Ind. ISU’s claim to fame may be Larry Byrd, but it’s also where Tony George graduated from. People may not realize how much racing history is located in Terre Haute – from the Terre Haute Action Track, being the home of the Hulman family and base for Clabber Girl Baking Powder, the city is really ingrained in the sport’s history. I have a Bachelor of Science in Radio-TV-Film with concentrations in marketing and public relations. I had a really great advisor while I was there; his name was Dr. Joseph Tenerelli.  He really gave me the extra encouragement I needed to pursue my goals of working in the sport. ISU now offers a Motorsports Management minor – something that’s developed since my time there. One of my True Speed Communication colleagues, Joe Crowley, also graduated from ISU. I’d recommend it to anyone exploring their college options.

 

 

What is your favorite race you have ever seen?

 

I really don’t know that I can name one single race as my favorite. I’ve had the privilege of seeing several drivers that I work with win some really big races. I’d say that the 2008 & 2009 Knoxville Nationals (won by Donny Schatz) rank right up there. Levi Jones’ run at Eldora Speedway in the 2005 USAC 4-Crown Nationals is also a favorite memory. He really likes the high-side and he’s always up on the wheel…and the wall. One of my proudest moments was when TSR swept three championships in one night in 2009. Donny Schatz won the 2009 WoO Sprint Series championship, Levi Jones clinched the 2009 USAC National Sprint Series title and Josh Richards (Rocket Chassis house driver/affiliated to TSR) won the 2009 WoO Late Model Series championship within hours of each other on November 7, 2009. We don’t own Josh’s car (it’s owned by Mark Richards Racing) but he’s part of our program. That night was definitely a standout in my mind. We were taking the stage with Donny & Josh in North Carolina and Levi was taking the checkered flag in California. We were a nation apart but TSR was definitely together that night – it was an awesome feeling.

 


Who is your favorite driver- besides your boss?!!!

 

Tony is, of course, my favorite driver. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen anyone who is more naturally gifted behind the wheel of a racecar. His talent is unquestionable. I actually really enjoy all of the drivers I’ve worked with -- the group we have in 2010 is a lot of fun. I really admire A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti. I’ve had the opportunity to meet both of them and I really have a tremendous amount of respect for both of them. What they’ve been able to accomplish in their careers is unbelievable. As a teenager, my favorite drivers also included Buddy Lazier and Kenny Irwin, Jr. To watch Buddy Lazier win the Indianapolis 500 with a broken back was unbelievable. I have a photograph of he and I together at Indy from the year I was an Indianapolis 500 Festival Princess. It’s one of my favorites. I had gotten to know Kenny a little the year he passed away through my position with Wynn’s. He was fun to watch in the USAC ranks – I loved the battles between him and Tony.

 

 

Your favorite thing to do besides working and going to the races?

 

Honestly, I’m most happy when I’m at the race track. If I’m not working, you can usually find me at the track somewhere – and it’s almost always a dirt event. I try to take care of myself and I enjoy working out, kickboxing, running and Zumba. I have a personal trainer that I see several times a week or as my schedule allows. Staying healthy is very important with the schedule I keep. Our race season actually runs from January to November and December is spent prepping for the next season. I do have a bit of a shopping habit, though, and I love a good mall…or a good online shopping adventure. I like to read and I have a couple of TV shows I try to keep up with. I also love music and keep my IPod capacity maxed out most of the time. Some of my favorite bands include Chevelle, Three Days Grace, Breaking Benjamin, Red, Muse, Dead By Sunrise and Linkin Park…my playlist is full of hard rock and alternative but I also like some rap and pop thrown in there too.

 

Favorite vacation spot?


I’m torn between the heat and the cold. My family and I really enjoy Hawaii – especially Waikiki. I love to be outdoors and the weather is as advertised – it’s paradise. We love climbing Diamondhead Mountain and I really enjoy going to Pearl Harbor. It’s such a sobering experience, to realize that the men entombed there died so that our country is free. My Grandfather fought in WWII and I was very humbled to go to the USS Arizona Memorial and pay my respects. I also like the other end of the spectrum and enjoy climates where there is a lot of snow. I like to be outdoors – whether it’s warm or wintry.

  

If you had to choose one dirt track besides Eldora (boss owns) which one is your favorite?

 

Eldora Speedway will always be my favorite dirt track – it’s a legendary facility that is a cornerstone of modern-day dirt track racing. It’s really exciting to be part of the track’s history and you never really get over the feeling that comes with competing on the high-banks of Eldora. It’s the place that every driver wants to win at during their career. I also really enjoy Knoxville Raceway and The Dirt Track @ Charlotte. Both of those facilities hold really great memories for me and I am always excited when we go to those events.

 


Your best friend you have got out of racing?


My Mom is my best friend – hands down. She’s my confidante, cheerleader, sounding board and inspiration all rolled into one. I am very lucky, the day they handed out parents, I got two of the best anyone could ask ever ask for. My Mom and Dad have always supported my dreams and goals – they’ve always believed in me and encouraged me to reach even further when I thought I couldn’t go beyond where I was. I owe them a lot and I am very lucky to have them in my life.

 

Worst moment you have had to deal with from a PR side with racing?

 

Anytime any of your drivers are involved in a serious crash it’s a tense moment. Accidents aren’t something we dwell on in the sport, we always know they can happen but you can’t let it stop you from competing and going for the win. Most of the time, you can see the wreck unfolding, it’s kind of like watching a train wreck – you can see it coming but you can’t do anything to stop it. The moment the car lifts into the air, your heart stops – and then it breaks. You know that the driver in the car is one of ‘ours’ and you hope that they’re okay. A split second later, professionalism kicks in and you go into crisis management mode. Your job is to make sure the situation is not only under control, but being handled in the best possible manner for all involved. You have to be prepared for anything, expect the worst and hope for the best – and at all times, and be in control of the situation.

 

How do you handle the pressure of being with a high-profile boss and teams?

 

The racing industry is a business and TSR operates our organizations with the upmost professionalism. It’s no different than any other role or position, how you present yourself and how you’re perceived plays a big role in your career. I expect a lot from myself and from those around me. I am always aware of the fact that whatever I do, whether its work related or not, is a direct reflection not only on myself, but on Tony, TSR and my colleagues. I am very proud to be part of the TSR organization and I would never want to jeopardize this opportunity. I think everyone in business, racing-related or not, is in control of their own professional destiny by way of how they handle themselves and the situations they come across.

 

In closing, I’d like to thank Camisha and Dirt Diva’s for their time. We’ll see you at the races! ~Misha

  

It was interesting when I was first introduced to Misha I was taken back that we share almost the same name.  Usually people call me “Misha” as my nickname and we laughed about how weird that was and that we both love doing PR and marketing and of course racing!  In the time I have known Misha, she has inspired me as a PR professional.  Her passion and love for her job is apparent any time you see her at the track.  I didn’t ask her what makes her a Diva in this interview because I think you all can see she is one HANDS-DOWN J We have developed a wonderful friendship and I appreciate her insights on a lot of things that I have worked with her on.  Thank you Misha for being an inspiration to all women who want to be involved in racing whether a sponsor- PR/marketing director, etc- you truly are a role model!

 

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Camisha Miller: camisha@highflyerspr.com

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