Do You Ever Feel "Not Enough" When You Race Against Boys?

In the fast-paced world of motorsports, where speed is king and adrenaline fuels every lap, it’s not uncommon for female racers to find themselves questioning their place when competing against men. Despite the surge of talented women breaking into the sport, there remains an unspoken pressure to prove oneself. Many female racers grapple with the feeling of being “not enough” when they line up beside their male counterparts.

But at GoFastGirls, we believe that feeling "not enough" is simply the starting point of something greater. It’s where grit, determination, and an unshakable will to win come into play. As Bear Scharbarth, co-founder of GoFastGirls, states, “Racing isn’t about gender. It’s about who’s got the heart, the skill, and the drive. And our girls have that in spades.”

Let's dive deep into the psychological and emotional hurdles female racers face in a predominantly male arena. We’ll explore how the GoFastGirls community and apparel brand aim to break down those barriers, empowering girls and women to feel more than enough on and off the track.

The Power Dynamics of Racing

Racing is more than just a physical competition; it’s a mental game. When women compete against men in motorsports, there's often an invisible weight of societal expectations. Female racers are not just competing to win; they are fighting against long-standing biases and preconceived notions about their capabilities. The pressure to prove themselves as "worthy" in this environment can be intense.

Kristen Scharbarth, co-founder of GoFastGirls, emphasizes, “We saw that young girls were showing up with the same fire, the same talent, but somehow, there was still this question of, ‘Am I good enough?’ That’s why we built this community—to show them they are more than enough.”

It’s essential to recognize that feeling “not enough” often stems from external sources, like outdated ideas that women can’t compete at the same level as men. However, with the rise of female racers dominating various disciplines, this myth is slowly being debunked. The motorsports world is evolving, and it’s women like those in the GoFastGirls community who are pushing the boundaries.

Turning Self-Doubt into Fuel

Rather than seeing self-doubt as a weakness, many female racers learn to harness it as motivation. The feeling of inadequacy often drives them to push harder, train longer, and ultimately rise above the challenge. This is where mindset plays a crucial role.

In sports psychology, this is known as the growth mindset, where challenges and setbacks are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Female racers who adopt this mindset see every race, every lap, as a chance to learn and improve, regardless of the outcome.

One GoFastGirls ambassador shared her personal experience:
"When I first started racing, I always felt like I had to prove something extra. But now, every time I get on the track, I remember that my skills are what count, not who I'm racing against."

Building a Community of Empowerment

The idea of empowerment isn’t just a buzzword at GoFastGirls—it’s a lifestyle. The brand was built around the concept of creating a supportive community for girls and women in motorsports and action sports, bridging the gap between a male-dominated industry and the incredible talent of female racers.

At GoFastGirls, the mission is clear: to celebrate every victory, no matter how small, and to lift each other up when the road gets tough. As Bear puts it, “We’re here to provide the platform and the apparel that makes you feel like a champion before you even step on the track. It’s not just about winning—it’s about showing up, racing your race, and knowing you belong.”

Through apparel, events, and a strong digital presence, GoFastGirls has become a beacon for young girls who need a reminder that they’re more than enough. Whether they’re competing at the top levels or just getting started, GoFastGirls gives them the tools and the confidence to keep pushing forward.

The Role of Representation in Motorsports

Representation is everything. Seeing women on the track, on podiums, and in racing magazines normalizes the idea that women belong in motorsports. This visibility is vital for the next generation of racers who are looking for role models they can identify with.

One of the key strategies for increasing representation is ensuring that female racers are not only visible but celebrated. This is where apparel brands like GoFastGirls come into play, providing a literal platform for female racers to stand out and be recognized. When girls wear GoFastGirls gear, they’re not just wearing a shirt—they’re wearing a symbol of their commitment, courage, and strength.

As Kristen notes, “When a girl puts on a GoFastGirls tee, she’s not just representing herself—she’s representing every girl who’s ever doubted her ability and overcome that doubt.”

FAQ: Common Concerns for Female Racers

Q: Do female racers face more challenges than men in motorsports?
A: While the physical demands of racing are the same for everyone, female racers often deal with added pressure due to gender bias. However, many are using this pressure as motivation to excel.

Q: How can I overcome feelings of self-doubt when racing against men?
A: Embrace a growth mindset. Focus on your skills, your preparation, and your love for the sport rather than comparing yourself to others. Remember, every lap is an opportunity to grow.

Q: What support systems exist for female racers?
A: Communities like GoFastGirls are dedicated to empowering and supporting female racers. Whether through mentorship, apparel, or events, these networks provide invaluable resources for women in motorsports.

Q: Is there a future for women in professional motorsports?
A: Absolutely. More women are breaking into the professional ranks than ever before, and with increased visibility and support, the future looks bright for female racers.

Racing Toward a Future Where Everyone Belongs

At the end of the day, racing is about more than just crossing the finish line first—it’s about passion, persistence, and the drive to keep pushing boundaries. For women who feel “not enough” when racing against men, GoFastGirls serves as a reminder that your worth isn’t determined by who you’re up against, but by how you show up and race your race.

As Bear and Kristen Scharbarth have built this brand and community, they’ve created a space where every girl feels seen, heard, and supported. By donning GoFastGirls apparel, you’re not just wearing a brand—you’re joining a movement. A movement that says: You are more than enough.

If you’ve ever doubted your place on the track, let this be the last time. Gear up, head over to the GoFastGirls shop to grab your racing essentials, and race like you have nothing to prove—because you don’t.