Cars out for the ladies

For years women in motor racing were just 'brolly dollies' or mascots. Now, though, a major event puts them in the driving seat

By Fanny Johnstone / THE GUARDIAN , LONDON

Georgie Shaw, spokesperson for the BWRDC, agrees with Coulthard that the time has come to develop women drivers. “We don't want any special concessions simply because we're women. We just want to be another driver on the track. Susie Stoddart is the only female finalist in the prestigious BRDC McLaren Autosport Young Driver Award ever. I firmly believe that she will be the first British female in F1. And soon.”

But it is Glew's vision of the future that revs my engine. “Imagine a Formula Woman race alongside an F1 grand prix. Just imagine how much excitement and interest that would generate.”

Monaco, here we come.