Balancing school, sports, and a high-octane hobby might seem overwhelming for most high school sophomores, but Macey Adamik, a standout student at Kiski High School, handles it with remarkable grace and poise.

Macey, known for her long black hair and piercing blue eyes, has been making waves both on the dirt track and on the cheerleading squad. As the captain of the junior varsity cheerleaders, she leads her team with a blend of enthusiasm, discipline, and skill.

However, it’s not just her cheerleading prowess that has people talking. Macey races big block Modifieds on dirt tracks, a sport traditionally dominated by men. Her journey into racing began with go-karts, where she quickly showed a natural aptitude and a competitive spirit.

“I started racing go-karts when I was five,” she recalls. “It was a lot of fun and I won a lot of races, but I always wanted to go faster.”

When she was 11, Macey changed to the Micro Sprint Division.

“I was the first female to win a race in 15 years at the Blanket Hill Speedway,” she said. She later ran two Mod light races.

Macey transitioned to big block Modifieds, a move that not only fulfilled her need for speed, but also showcased her extraordinary talent behind the wheel. Racing these powerful machines requires immense skill, precision, and bravery — qualities Macey has in abundance. Despite the challenges and dangers associated with dirt track racing, she thrives in the adrenaline-fueled environment. Her favorite Modified driver, Brian Swartzlander, reminded her that this is a big step and the learning curve is long, so to go easy on yourself.

“All drivers take time to adjust to a new division. They had to start somewhere,” he said.

Macey was first introduced to racing when her dad, Jeremy, competed in the Late Model and Mod Lite divisions. Her pit crew now consists of her dad, mom-Monica, uncle-Jeff Hanford, Bob Kiser and Nash Lucas. Kiski Precision and Apollo Hoagies are a big help to the team.

Lucky charms are important to many drivers. One night when Macey was racing Micros, a person gave her a dollar bill for good luck and she won! Ever since, she has tucked that bill in the pocket of her racing suit for every competition!

Balancing her dual passions of racing and cheerleading with academic responsibilities is no easy feat. Yet, Macey excels in her studies, maintaining a solid GPA. After high school she would like to become a pediatric doctor or a dentist.

“I want to work with children,” she said.

Macey Adamik’s story is one of courage, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether she’s cheering on the sidelines or tearing up the dirt track, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and passion. As she continues to break barriers and set new standards, Macey proves that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Other Racing News

Due to low car counts, Tri-City Speedway has dropped the Mini -Stocks. The management is replacing them with Rush Sprints.

The three generation Walters family are all still racing at times in 2024. They are some of the nicest people you will meet at the track.

Larry Walters, 82, has been competing throughout a 66-year span. Currently, he is enjoying a class called Vintage Racing that can be seen certain Tuesdays at Lernerville Speedway. His #04 car is a replica of the 1973 Late Model that he drove on dirt at Motordrome.

His son, Jeff Walter’s, number is 18. He drove Pure Stocks, UMP Modifieds, and a Big Block Modified for Vicki Emig. Occasionally he still gets into a racer and competes during the season. Larry’s grandson, Colton Walters races a #18 Big Block Modified. He is currently 13th in the Lernerville point standings.

On his Facebook page, he was signing an autograph for a “kid” at the track. He said, “Some nights aren’t all sunshine and rainbows. You’ll have that in this game. But it isn’t for lack of effort. Autographs can make a kid’s whole evening!”

Despite the long tow, Canadians have been invading the Sarver oval. Mat Williamson took home the top Big Block Modified prize over Garrett Krummertt last week. His Canadian friend, Dalton Slack, was fifth in the same event!

Firecracker 100

The Lernerville famed “Firecracker Fest” week begins next Tuesday. It will be a five-day event. Tuesday features a concert with country artist Drew Baldridge. The next day, SEBRA Extreme-Bull Riders and Barrels takes center stage in a newly constructed area over the hill of the track’s back straight-away. Grandstands have been placed there.

Drivers are gearing up for the most prestigious 1 th annual Firecracker 100 that is sanctioned by Big River Steel/ Lucas Oil Late Models. Thursday and Friday drivers will compete for a $25,000 to win show each night, plus the RUSH Crate Late Models.

Saturday, Big River Steel/ Lucas Oil Late Models will clash for a whopping $50,000 to win show. The RUSH Crate Late Models Bill Emig Memorial feature winner will collect the biggest payoff of the year, $20,000.

Carol Gamble is a racing columnist for the Butler Eagle