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In this episode of Late to Grid, we welcome karting champion Alyssa Korecky to the Atomic Autosports studio to share her inspiring and relatable motorsports journey. Starting out on a homemade backyard dirt track, Alyssa evolved from riding a Power Wheels to racing full-speed LO206 karts at premier tracks like Mid-Ohio, Nelson Ledges, and Pitt Race.

We dive deep into Alyssa’s transition from casual backyard fun to competitive karting through the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) and her first nerve-wracking race experience. From spinning out in her first practice session to ultimately winning a karting championship, her journey is one of resilience, family support, and self-confidence. This episode shines a spotlight on grassroots motorsports, especially entry-level kart racing like LO206 and how it opens the door to more advanced formats like TAG karting and shifter kart racing.

Alyssa shares great advice for those looking to enter the world of karting, including the importance of respecting speed, building confidence, and learning how to navigate a competitive environment—especially as a female driver. We also explore how racing influences her work life as a professional graphic designer, where precision, performance, and consistency echo her time on the track.

Whether you're exploring how to start in karting, curious about LO206 performance, or just love a good underdog racing story, this episode has something for everyone. We even touch on the broader value of high-performance driving events (HPDE) and how karting provides the perfect platform to build racecraft.

Big shoutouts to the community at Nelson Ledges, Pitt Race, and all those supporting the next generation of racers through local karting leagues, endurance karting events, and track day programs. This is grassroots racing at its finest—family, fun, and fierce competition.

🛞 Keywords: Karting, LO206, TAG kart, Shifter Kart, SCCA, Mid-Ohio, Nelson Ledges, Pitt Race, Concession karts, Female racer, Grassroots motorsports, Motorsport career, Go-kart racing, Racing family, How to start karting, Track days, Endurance racing, HPDE, High-performance driver education, Racing confidence, Motorsports journey

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From simple tire swaps and brake upgrades to corner balancing and dialed in alignments, Atomic Autosports gets your car ready for the track.  Whether you are an autocrossers, time trial, road racer, or track day junkie - the team at Atomic Autosports can tailor their services to your budget and your needs.   Visit AtomicAutosports.com to learn more.

Thanks for listening and taking an interest in growing grassroots racing. The Late To Grid podcast shares the stories and inspiration that help listeners along their motorsports journey.

Find all episodes on the Atomic Autosports website.