Name: Vickie Livengood

Hometown: Kennewick, WA

Occupation: I attempt to manage a husband and 7 children. I succeed at managing our home and a television station.

Personal: Married to a phenomenal guy who is willing to buy anything for my car in the name of autocross!

Autocrossing experience: This is my second season in this amazing sport so I am sure that I have much to learn. I have experienced one local driving school; but others in the club have contributed immensely to my ever-improving driving skills. Thanks to those of you who let me take your cars for a spin! Can I consider driving a demolition derby car experience?

Primary autocross vehicle and class: '95 Mustang GT Conv 5.0. Ladies PAX Class (C9). SCCA Class-FS

Major modifications: KYB AGX's, an autocross oriented front end alignment, cat-back exhaust and Kumho Victoracers. The mods are a very fun part of the whole autocross scene because I get to help Vic hoist up the car and get dirty! I am sure that this is a test of his patience, but he continues to let me help.

Modifications that made the biggest difference: Definitely the Kumho's!! I had no idea that I could push my car that hard and have it grip the course. I continue to try to push it beyond its limits to find out where to draw the line but I haven't managed yet.

Modifications that made the least difference: K&N Filter

Future modifications to help make your vehicle more competitive: I am not sure that any mods will help and am considering a different car completely. I like the power so maybe a Cobra with mods is the way to go. However, Vic and I want to dual drive so we are looking at Mazdas, Nissans, and Hondas.

Other current or past autocross vehicles: I have autocrossed Vic's '90 Mustang GT Conv 5.0. It's tough for me to drive but it is much faster than my car. I have eaten many cones with the beast!

Best thing about autocrossing: Family. I have never experienced family involvement at this level. We began with the club as a way to get Jeremy out of street racing and it grew into this family event that involves all of us in one way or another. We are now enjoying the boys' girlfriends within autocross also. Kim Dang is one of those girls.

Worst thing about autocrossing: 2 day events. The days are long to begin with and then when you add a second day, Mom has to try to figure out how to get kids up, get them there, be on time, work, drive my car and be happy about it! Most times I do ok; but if I seem to growl at you, please forgive me!

Best driving tips: I would suggest that someone else drive your car with you in it. I was amazed at what my car would give. I had no idea until someone drove it for me.

Best advice for a beginner: Don't think you know how to drive just because you can put your foot in it. Listen to others and learn from them. Even if you think you are a great street driver, most people in autocross really know the sport so trust their knowledge.

My ideal car: I am not sure. One that's loud, luxurious, maneuverable, paid for by someone else, hauls groceries and has plenty of space for magnetics. I see so many great cars within our club that it is very hard to decide what to purchase.

Opinion of your current car for autocross use: My car is fun for me because it does a lot of the things that I listed as ideal. It is NOT the truly ideal car for autocross, though. It is big, heavy & hard to maneuver. I think I get all I can out of it, but there is no doubt that there are other cars better suited to this sport.

 

Awards/Wins/Accomplishments: 2004 season current C9 class points leader (this is kind of deceiving though, because until recently I haven't had much competition), 2004 Women's Heat Race Winner (this netted the opportunity to drive many men's cars for the 2005 season). I never imagined that I would be able to help other women drivers. But thanks to all those who have offered their wisdom and support, I find myself able to help the women who are new to the sport.