I got into racing by accident—quite literally. I didn’t grow up around motorsports, and karting was never an option my family could afford. In fact, I wasn’t even interested in racing until much later in life. When I was finally old enough to drive, I developed a love for cars and dreamed of one day taking them to the racetrack. But life had other plans.

For years, I was the caregiver to my father who had medical issues, and when I lost him in late 2022 I also lost my sense of direction. Searching for a way out of the darkness, I signed up for a performance driving school in Southern California. I was terrible. The environment wasn’t supportive, and it was deeply discouraging—but something in me wanted to keep going.

That persistence led me to the Porsche Experience Center in Los Angeles in summer 2023 where I met my instructor, Evan Jacobs. He introduced me to the world of club racing and Spec Miata. Just months before that, I had survived a near-death fall while climbing Mt. Fuji in Japan—a moment that reminded me how fragile life is and how important it is to live fully and fearlessly.

With no prior racing or track day experience, I threw myself into learning. I earned my SCCA racing license and started competing in Spec Miata in March 2024. Since then, I haven’t looked back.

Racing gave me purpose when I needed it most. It’s more than just a sport to me—it’s a symbol of resilience, healing, and passion. I’m grateful for every moment I get behind the wheel, and I hope my journey inspires others—especially those who didn’t grow up with access to racing—to chase their dreams, no matter where or when they start.