In 1992 became the second woman (following Janet Guthrie) to drive in the
Indianapolis 500 auto race. In seven Indy 500s (1992-1997, 2000), her
best finish was 11th in 1992.
In 1992, she became the first woman to win the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year award.
Retired from racing in 2001.
She is a motivational speaker.
President of the Women's Sports Foundation (1990-1993).
Her daughter is Lindsay Lessman.
Graduate of Andrews School for Girls in Ohio and majored in business. Earned a piano-teaching certificate from the St. Louis Institute of Music.
Release of her book, "Ride of Your Life: A Race Car Driver's Journey". (2002)