I grew up in a large family of drift racers. I learned at a young age to drift race after my go-kart wasn't fast enough. Following in my brothers' footsteps, I competed in local drift races before going professional.
I met my teammate Danica Patrick when I first started. I steered me in the right direction before sustaining an knee injury preventing my from racing this season.
I am 30 years old, ashe blonde hair, 5' 8", lean and mean, not to mention, a spitfire. I have only been racing professionally the last 2 years, but apparently I've made quite an impression in the sport.
The short speed channel interview started smoothly:
*Miss DeArmen, your track record is very impressive, having won 2 out of the 5 races you competed in.
My track record appeared on the viewing screen:
**2008- Placed 1st at Formula Drift Round 7, Irwindale Speedway
**2007-Placed 1st at D1 Grand Prix USA All-Star World Championship, Irwindale Speedway
Placed 2nd at Formula D Round 5, Sonoma Speedway
Placed 2nd at Formula D Round 4, Evergreen Speedway
**2006-Finished 4th place overall in the Formula D series
The host turned to me for my input.
"I am proud that my driving skills and all my hard work have paid off."
*How does it feel to be a woman competing in Nascar?
"I'm ecstatic that I've made it this far. I don't plan to quit anytime soon."
*Do you think you will get along with your new teammates?
"I expect a few bumps in the road, but I hope to make some good friends."
*Miss DeArmen, do you think you'll get made fun of?
"Yes. I expect ridicule, but I grew up with five older brothers. I learned to hold my own at a young age."
*How do you plan to handle your new career?
"Well, I would like to keep drift racing, but I plan to keep nascar my first priority."
*Your history of wins is very impressive. Do you think some drivers may feel intimidated?
"Yes I do. I hope to make the best of it and show them I can play the game just as good as they can."
*Your sponsers have said quote unquote, "We are extremely confident that DeArmen will stay strong". What do you think about that?
"I am honored that my sponsors have my back and I won't let them down."
*Thank you Miss DeArmen. Well fans, you have it. Qualifying starts shortly. Let's keep an out for Lisa DeArmen. She may change the way you look at nascar."
"That's a wrap."
I shook hands with the speed channel host and made my way back.
I'm the only woman on the track. I heard boos and had rude comments as I walked back down to the cars. I didn't care. I was used to them growing up.
I went over to my Ford and shook hand with my new crew. They seem a little unsure that they are working for a girl. I talk with them briefly and assure them I am as good as they say I am.
I plan to show them exactly what I've got. My turn came to do just that...