Texas native, Jacklyn Drake grew up around the race track cheering on family members as they spent time on their race craft. After spending her own time behind the wheel, Drake eventually replaced her steering with a microphone.
However, with a life-long love of the sport, it was not a surprise that she has gravitated toward telling the stories of others on track. Read on to learn more about racer-turned-reporter, Jacklyn Drake.
Who is another reporter or journalist that you consider an inspiration? I personally look up to Jamie Little as a journalist! She’s a talented pit reporter that holds so much grace – definitely an inspiration.
What made you want to start working in NASCAR? After I graduated from high school I knew I wanted to be involved in motorsports even if that meant not being behind the wheel. I started helping my friends who continued to race with their marketing needs –
that led me to a career in racing!
If you had the choice between driving full time or reporting full time, which would you choose and why? Being on pit road gives me the same thrill and adrenaline that driving gave me when I competed. It’s one of the reasons I fell in love with the pit reporting role years ago! I’m really enjoying pursuing my goals – I’ll choose reporting full-time and keep racing as my hobby. 🙂
Do you have a favorite NASCAR driver? If so, who is it? I grew up as a Dale Jr. fan (who didn’t?!) but if we go with active drivers, I’ve always been a fan of Kyle Larson. Any driver who can wheel on both dirt and asphalt is considered a true wheelman in my book!
What has been the most exciting experience of being a NASCAR reporter? There’s been a lot of exciting moments, but I’d have to say pit reporting at Martinsville!
You just celebrated your first year working for NASCAR. How does it feel? Every day I feel grateful to do what I love and advocate for the sport and women in racing. It’s pretty surreal!
As a driver, what has been your favorite series to race in? I come from deep short track roots so I’m going with the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Late Model Series!
What is one goal you have for the remainder of 2022? Simple – finish the year out strong!
What is one goal you have for the 2023 racing season? I’d love to be on a national broadcast in 2023 – that’s the goal.
Jacklyn chose the SPCA of Texas / Ellis County Animal Shelter as her charity of choice.
Follow Jaclyn Drake –
Facebook – Jaclyn Drake Official
Twitter – theoneNonlyJKD
Instagram – theonenonlyjkd
