83-Year-Old Bobbi Oxford Lives Her Racing Dream at Last!

Quick Smiles:

• Bobbi Oxford, an 83-year-old racing enthusiast, finally fulfills her lifelong dream of driving a race car.
• With support from Wish of a Lifetime, Bobbi took to the track at Pikes Peak International Raceway.
• Cheered on by friends, family, and fellow female drivers, Bobbi enjoyed an exhilarating day at the raceway.

Some of Bobbi Oxford’s most cherished childhood memories are filled with the roar of engines and the excitement of her brother’s drag races.

Back then, opportunities for women to drive were scarce, but the thrill of racing always stayed with her.

Bobbi once had a chance to race in a ‘Powder Puff Derby’ meant for women.

Unfortunately, the event was canceled due to rain, and the opportunity slipped away—until now.

At 83, Bobbi finally got her moment in the driver’s seat.

“I have the need for speed, baby!” she declared from her home in Littleton, Colorado, where she enjoys activities like sewing and painting.

Thanks to Wish of a Lifetime, a charity under AARP, Bobbi’s dream came true at the Pikes Peak International Raceway.

Under a perfect, clear sky, she drove a retired race car owned by Joe Garone, the track’s COO.

When asked about her speed goal, she enthusiastically replied, “As fast as I can—maybe a hundred and thirty.”

Equipped with a helmet and a personalized racing suit, Bobbi received a garage tour and orientation before hitting the track.

With an experienced driver by her side, she circled the 1-mile oval track repeatedly, savoring every moment.

“Just the sound of this motor and being behind this wheel,” she exclaimed.

“You step on the gas, and hear roarrrrr—I tell you!”

Cheered on by female race car drivers, friends from her senior community, and her family, Bobbi felt the love and support.

After her solo drive, a professional driver gave her a thrilling ride, complete with spins and rubber-burning.

“I made it!” Bobbi joyfully announced.

“Nothing can ever, ever top this.”

Reflecting on her experience, she added, “Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would get in a race car, but I did!”

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