I love stories like this for a few reasons, but those who know me also know how much I’m into off-road racing – especially the Baja Races (seriously, I can’t ever seem to get enough and at times, I’m completely crazy when it comes to my addiction of the sport), so you can imagine how thrilled I was to learn that Heidi Steele was named ‘Driver of the Year’ by DirtSports Magazine during its award celebration in Anaheim, California.

The title was presented to Steele, the first woman in off-road racing history to receive the prestigious honor, besting some of the top names in desert racing including Robby Gordon, Cameron Steele, BJ Baldwin and Rob MacCachren.

Three words: You go, girl!

Heidi Steele, who began racing in 2004, has quickly made a name for herself in the male-dominated sport. She won three titles in the grueling terrain of Baja California, taking first place in her class at the Baja 1000 in 2005 and two first place titles in the Baja 500 in 2005 and 2008. In her first four years of racing, Steele also has won two SCORE championships and one Best in the Desert championship.

Said Steele of her prestigious ’Driver of the Year’ title:

“To be recognized and honored with such a prestigious award among the many talented drivers in off-road racing is truly unbelievable. I am grateful that DirtSports has taken more and varied factors into consideration for the ‘Driver of the Year’ award, including winning two championships in one year and the challenges of competing in a more limited class. This award gives hope and inspiration to so many drivers that you can be recognized for your racing abilities regardless of the class you may race in currently.”

An executive from San Clemente, California, Steele fell into the sport of desert racing through her trophy truck-racing husband, television commentator and sports announcer, Cameron Steele. For the past three years, Steele has successfully competed in the semi-limited mid-size truck class. She recently moved up to the ultimate mid-size truck class, taking on new challenges and stiffer competition.

Heidi Steele is sponsored by Yokohama Tires, Lucas Oil, Currie Enterprises, American Racing Wheels, KC HiLITES, Fox Shox, MasterCraft, Camburg, AlpineStars and Deaver and supported by a team of dedicated volunteers and the Desert Assassins family.

[source: Desert Assassins]

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