Dystany Spurlock became the first Black woman to compete in NASCAR’s ARCA Menards Series events.
Spurlock competed in the Kansas Speedway on Saturday (April 18), starting at the back of the 29-car field before working her way up to 16th place a few laps into the race, according to Essence. She continued to gain ground through multiple cautions and restarts.
She later used a caution as a “free pass” rule to get back into the lead, and pass two more drivers to secure a spot in the top-10.
“It was an amazing day,” Spurlock said in a statement. “I’m continuing to race and learn and prove to myself and others that I belong here. I wasn’t happy about getting punted at the close of the race, but I made the best out of it.”
During her years in motorcycle drag racing, Spurlock became the first woman to win the Real Street class in the XDA series, setting a world record in the process. She also became the first Black woman to compete in the NHRA’s Pro Stock Motorcycle category last year before competing on the race track.
“Dystany competing at this level is a direct reflection of preparation, opportunity, and an intentional support system,” Chris Harris, co-owner of Black-owned mobility media company Foxxtecca, told the outlet. “She’s a monster, and she is showing that she belongs here, and more importantly, that others belong here.”
Spurlock’s next ARCA event is slated for May 8, 2026, at Watkins Glen International. She is also scheduled to race at the NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis in September 2026 and the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals in Dallas in October 2026.
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