Driver Profiles: Shea Holbrook

Question Time!

First off let's tell our readers which series you drive in? 

Since 2010, I’ve been racing in a professional series called the Pirelli World Challenge Championships. This is a multiclass, production-based sportscar road racing series with high energy, and a television package on the Versus Network. We race all over North America including many street course alongside the IZOD IndyCar Series.

How did you get your start into cars and racing? 

It all started just shy of 5 years ago with a Richard Petty Experience at Daytona! Oh, was my dad in trouble. He knew what he was setting me up for though! I was too young to drive (therefore, a passenger) but loved every second of it. I’ll never forget what it felt like my first time on the banks at Daytona. And, I was only a passenger! That day I found my new obsession.

Holbrook interviewed by the Versus Network at Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

What is your racing series of choice to drive in?

I first started with high performance events, like Chin Motorsports. Then, went on to obtain my racing license with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). After three years I went pro racing in Pirelli World Challenge. It’s hard to determine what my ultimate series to race in would be because I want to do it all! But, short-term I want to run full seasons in rear wheel powered cars and win for example the 24 Hours of Daytona and the Sebring 12 Hours! Oh, and V8 Supercars would be amazing!

Who are your current sponsors? 

I’ve had many over the past few years and all have played a huge part in my success as a driver such as, K&N Air Filters, Lucas Oil, beatbyagirl.org, TradeBank, Wealth Shield Financial, MyPluggz, VisionX Customs Graphics, Integrated Security Group and even some fans.

Shea's firesuit bearing the livery of her first major sponsor.

Who was your first sponsor and how did they help you? 

My parents of course! Since I began racing K&N Air Filters have not only helped improve my race craft but also connected me to many others in the industry. To this day, they are still strong supporters of what I’m doing and I’m one of their biggest fans.

What advice would you give to someone or a team wanting to get into Racing? 

Shake and bake! View your options, make connections with those already involved in racing, go to as many races as possible (racing or not), get seat time, have a budget, find a mentor, and don’t be afraid of rejection. For a driver, the scariest thing about racing is not having a ride. Stay determined and persevere.

Shea on track at St Petersburg.

What series would you like to progress to?

Such a hard question!  In the short-term American Le Mans Series and V8 Supercars.

Who do you look to for guidance with your driving; do you have any racing idols?

I have a few people I look up to and depend upon for driver advice. Lyn St. James has played a role in my development as a driver and as a young business professional in the motorsports industry.

Shea and fellow World Challenge driver Randy Pobst ride in the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Parade.