Shelton’s schedule has gotten busy in recent weeks. She’ll graduate this fall from Cal-State Sacramento with a B.A. in Criminal Justice, but before doing so will have to commute back-and-forth to campus for her last few classes.
“It’s been a lot this year. I actually have to go back to campus in the fall because I ran out of online classes to take,” Shelton laughed. “Having to fly from Indianapolis to Sacramento every week takes a toll on you, but I wouldn’t change anything for the world.”
Shelton’s recent Valley Speedway effort comes on the heels of a team decision to divide their fleet and compete in multiple events at different facilities, with Kunz drivers currently leading both the POWRi and USAC point standings.
Though she isn’t in contention for either title due to her missed races, Shelton has a singular goal in mind for the rest of the season.
“It’s definitely cool to make history as a female, but my number one thing is that I just want to win,” she stressed. “That’s the target at this point. We’re close.”
The team will split again in two weeks, with USAC beginning Pennsylvania Midget Week while POWRi invades Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 in Pevely, Mo., for two straight nights of racing during the annual Ironman 55 weekend.
That’s when Shelton feels she’ll have her best opportunity to capitalize and score a victory.
“Myself, Tucker and Ryan will split up again from the rest of the team at the beginning of August to go run at Pevely for a two-day show with the (World of) Outlaws … and the last time I was down there, I was running in the top three when I blew a right-rear (tire),” Shelton noted. “I have good speed there, so if there’s any place I can close the deal I think it’s there. I really like big tracks and I think we can do it.
“We want to capitalize on this momentum; we’re riding a wave and I hope it continues.”
Shelton’s recent success comes at a time when four females have recently been in competition in the national midget ranks, with Maria Cofer, Presley Truedson and Holley Hollan all joining Shelton on the race track.
“It’s been nice, not being the only girl on track,” admitted Shelton. “It’s even better to see all of us having success. Presley’s been improving a lot, Holley’s stepped up … and Maria’s actually one of my best friends, so to have her out there and to be able to hang out with her has been refreshing and really nice. She’s asked me for feedback recently, which I’m happy to help her out some.
“I’m glad to be able to be a bit of a role model, not just for them, but for the little girls who are fans that come up to me at the track and are excited to see me racing,” she continued. “Hopefully, it encourages them to pursue their dreams as well.”
