From Off-Road Trucks to NASCAR: Haley Deegan’s Journey to the Big Leagues

Transitioning to NASCAR was a pivotal moment in Haley Deegan’s career. Starting off in off-road truck racing, she had reached a point where she felt there wasn’t much more to achieve. At just 15, she and her family saw the need to explore new avenues in motorsport.

Haley’s mother played a crucial role in this transition by signing her up for the NASCAR Diversity Program. Despite initial technical difficulties with the application, the form eventually went through, leading to an opportunity in North Carolina. Haley participated in a test for the junior legend cars, which opened doors to a full summer shootout.

The East Coast racing scene was a stark contrast to the West Coast. In Haley’s experience, the East Coast was more intense and competitive. Despite the cultural shift, she thrived. Her success in the Diversity Program caught the attention of Toyota, leading to a three-year contract and a chance to race in the K&N West series.

Haley’s dedication paid off when she secured her first win in the K&N West series, becoming the first female driver to win in the series’ history. Her aggressive and determined driving style, encouraged by her father, helped her stand out in the competitive field.

Balancing her racing career with family commitments, Haley’s journey has been marked by perseverance and adaptability. Now competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with the number 13 Ford, Haley continues to break barriers and challenge superstitions in the world of motorsport.