Making History, Beauty & Being A Badass: We Chat To Racer Toni Breidinger
Today we’re beyond excited to be talking to a total baddie, an inspiring young woman, and NASCAR’s first Arab-American female driver, Toni Breidinger. Toni is just 21-years-old and already holds the title for the top female driver in USAC history with an incredible 19 victories! And, after her first race at Daytona International Speedway (it’s a big deal in the world of racing) in February earlier this year – where she finished an impressive 18th – she has officially made history as NASCAR’s first Arab-American female driver.
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Not only is Toni conquering the track, but she’s also a huge beauty fan! So, you can imagine how excited Team HB was when we discovered we would be partnering with Toni for her track debut at General Tire 200 at Talladega Speedway today! Toni will be driving the Huda Beauty 02 Chevrolet SS for Young’s Motorsports. In honor of Arab Heritage Month, she is intentionally showcasing Arab-owned brands for her track debut and her 3rd series start in NASCAR’s ARCA Menards series.
Naturally, we are all in awe of Toni’s accomplishments. We love that she is celebrating her Lebanese roots and shining a light on the importance of cultural representation and women’s empowerment. We are so proud to support her on this incredible journey as she breaks barriers and paves the way for other young women to feel more confident exploring new turf.
We wanted to find out more about Toni’s inspiring journey. Luckily we got to ask her all about it, how she overcomes challenges, beauty, self-love, and more.
1. How did you get into race car driving, and what drew you to it?
When I was 9, my dad took my sister and I out go-karting just for fun. I got hooked on it immediately. Go-karting became a huge part of my life. We were able to travel all over the country and it was an amazing experience that really laid the foundation for my passion for driving.
2. What is about racing that you love so much?
I love how close the competition is. Everyone’s lap times are literally within a blink of an eye different from each other. When I’m racing I get in this hyper-focused mental space where all I’m thinking about is trying to pass the car in front of me. It’s very addictive.
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3. How does it feel to be a woman in such a male-dominated sport?
I’ve never singled myself out at the track as a female surrounded by males. The track doesn’t know gender, the car doesn’t know gender, so gender is irrelevant.
There’s been times when I’ve experienced some discrimination and heard people make comments. I ignore it. I know it’s there, but I don’t pay attention to or give energy to negative people who say things behind my back just because I’m a female. At the end of the day, we’re all drivers on the same track, racing towards the same goal.
4. How did it feel to become the first Arab-American female driver to race in NASCAR?
My first reaction to being the first Arab-American female driver to race in NASCAR was honestly disappointment. I was disappointed that no one was able to get the opportunity to come up and achieve that before for me. It’s great to be the first, but I don’t want to be the last. I really hope to pave the way for others.
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5. What have been the biggest challenges for you along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Definitely growing up I lacked confidence, and confidence is everything. I’ve learned that the best way to gain self-confidence is to do what you’re afraid to do. Work on bettering yourself in every way that you can to truly become the best that you can be. Be the girl that just goes and does it!
6. We’ve seen some stunning makeup looks on your IG page – tell us about your relationship with makeup and beauty?
I remember back in middle school, when I was 11 years old, I got my first “real” makeup. I used to make my twin sister be my model, and I’d do these awful makeup looks on her, haha. I used to record myself doing little makeup tutorials too; I thought I was a beauty guru.
7. What does beauty mean to you?
I truly believe that beauty comes from within. True beauty is radiating positive energy and light into others’ lives.
8. What’s your signature beauty look?
A little eyeliner and wing is definitely my go-to.
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9. What are your go-to beauty products that you can’t live without?
I definitely can’t live without mascara and eyeliner. I love that the Huda Beauty mascara and eyeliner are both double-ended, so I can do whatever type of look I’m feeling that day.
10. When you’re not on the track, how do you like to relax and show yourself self-love?
Now that the weather is getting warmer, my favorite way to relax and unwind is to lay by the pool with a smoothie and my phone on silent.
11. What does self-love mean to you?
Self-love is the love and respect you show yourself. I’ve improved my self-love by believing and accepting myself, and knowing my worth.
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12. What are your goals and dreams for the future?
I have racing goals as well as goals outside of racing. Winning is always my goal for every race, but I also set smaller goals each time. I focus on getting ahead one car at a time and securing the highest placing possible. I work to understand my car better, and I learn something new every race. The ultimate end goal for me is to get to the top level of NASCAR (the NASCAR Cup Series).
My personal goal is to always be happy!
13. What’s your advice for anyone who wants to pursue a passion when others tell them it’s crazy?
Go do it. Be the girl that actually goes and does it. Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies, whether it’s from fear or anxiety or both. Whether your dream is to race or to do something that’s out of the norm, be confident in yourself and know that you can do it. Don’t let that fear hold you back from something that is your passion and your dream. Even if you’re the first one to do it.
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We don’t know about you guys? But we’re now officially Toni’s biggest fans! Good luck Toni, we’ll be cheering for you all over the world on your race today, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do next!
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