For 19-year-old Hailie Deegan, the only direction at this point in time is forward. And much like any other driver, she also has goals and ambitions and the desire to be the best at what she does.

However, cutting it and proving to be a constant figure in the top divisions of stock car racing is no easy feat. But, she was aware of the challenges and is now on a path of discovery, trying to set out on a learning curve of her own.

Speaking on a podcast, Deegan stated, “Yeah, I am still figuring out that part myself! I think with not having a girl come up the ranks the traditional way through say late models, Can-Am, trucks, Xfinity, and then Cup, it makes it a little more difficult.”

“Because everything I’m doing is new and there’s no real path set out for me of what I’m supposed to do.”

Hailie Deegan believes it will only get tougher in NASCAR

“And trying to figure out okay what’s right, what’s wrong. Kind of in every situation, leaving the bad and taking the good, learning what I can and moving forward from there.”

Every driver in motorsports racing eyes race wins and trophies at prized events in the course of their career. But, Deegan is focused on taking it one step at a time and becoming realistic of the expectations and goals that she can achieve.

“And I think that’s why it is crucial for me. Not only for my career but for myself as a driver and my confidence in my driving abilities is winning races at every single level that I go to.”

“I know it’s going to get harder and harder going up the ranks. It’s going to be more challenging, we’ve got to be more realistic of what we can accomplish. But I think going up the ranks is just constantly being competitive, not just a female but a driver that can run up front and be competitive.”

Deegan is now the new torch-bearer for female racing drivers

Hailie made her debut in the 2020 Truck Series campaign with DGR-Crosley. She finished 16th in the race at Kansas Speedway, showing glimpses of what she can do in the future.

Based on all those efforts invested, she has now earned a full-time drive with the same team DGR-Crosley. And make no mistake, it will be interesting to watch her development and see what she is capable of going forward over the course of 23-odd races as well.

READ MORE – “Never Made Me Feel Different” – NASCAR Star Hailie Deegan Lauds Her Father and Motocross Star Brian Deegan for His Support