WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has announced the addition of Lyn St. James to its Legends collection that are displayed prominently within the Legends Club VIP Experience. This honor recognizes St. James for her outstanding contributions to motorsport and her enduring influence as a trailblazer for women in racing.
St. James, known for her tenacity and skill on the track, expressed her surprise and gratitude at being acknowledged as a Legend. “I’ve always felt like I was on the outside looking in, and it takes some time to realize I’m on the other side now,” she remarked. Reflecting on how Bill Warner, who honored her a few years ago at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, helped her see herself in a new light, she added, “I’ve always admired the legendary drivers around me, and for them to show me the same respect is so big! I’m taken aback.”
St. James’ illustrious racing career spans multiple classes, including her IndyCar tenure where she became the oldest person and first woman to win the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year, participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and victories at the IMSA 24 Hours at Daytona and IMSA 12 Hours of Sebring. She also became the first woman to exceed 200 miles per hour. She has shattered numerous barriers for women athletes being named by Sports Illustrated among the “Top-100 Women Athletes of the Century.”
Beyond her racing accomplishments, St. James has been a steadfast advocate for women in motorsports. As a co-founder of Women in Motorsports North America, she can be found behind a different kind of podium giving speeches and hosting events that focus on and highlights women’s progress across all fields of the motorsport industry.
The WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Legends banners honor individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the world of motorsports. Measuring 8 feet long and 2.5 feet wide, the banners feature figures such as Bruce McLaren, Sir Stirling Moss, Roger Penske, and Wayne Rainey to name a few. Guests with Legends Club tickets for the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion can view these banners in the Hospitality Pavilion.
“Lyn St. James is an icon, and her smiling face is a wonderful addition to the current banners we have,” said Jeanie Sumners, director of marketing for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. “Her name is easily recognizable to our young IndyCar fans and those who have seen her at the historic races for many years.”
Laguna Seca holds a special place in St James’ heart. She has attended the historic races for many years and will be seen again perusing the paddock this year, but it was also the first track she drove after her major accident in Riverside. “I remember vividly the mental gymnastics it took to make that lap happen,” St. James recalled. “Ultimately, I learned the power of my mind, which was a powerful lesson to learn not just in recovering from crashes, but also in life. I will always have that memory of this track.”
Women in the motorsport industry and allies can join Lyn St. James and WIMNA members on the stage during the Reunion, Saturday August 17 at 11am for a special photo opportunity. Legends Club tickets are still available but are expected to sell out for the upcoming event taking place August 14- 17. Those who want to see the banner in person, as well as enjoy a bird’s eye view of the track, local catering from Baja Cantina, and special meet & greet appearances throughout the weekend can purchase tickets by visiting WeatherTechRaceway.com or calling 831-242-8200.