In this heartfelt episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast, host Melinda Russell welcomes Gina Kolevar — a 51-year-old registered nurse, grandmother, and front-wheel-drive racer at Michigan’s historic Whittemore Speedway. Gina shares her inspiring journey from growing up at the track with her late father to finally stepping behind the wheel at age 43 after the loss of two best friends. Now in her eighth season, Gina is known as the "Nissan Queen" in her blue-and-white #84 car — a tribute to her dad.
Beyond racing, Gina feeds 50+ people every Saturday at the track, mentors younger drivers, promotes the Gene Ott Memorial Race, and serves as Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce. From balancing autoimmune challenges to finding peace in the driver’s seat and the kitchen, Gina’s story is one of resilience, community, and finding purpose in every lap.