Kaylee Bryson is poised to take the next major step in her racing journey as she prepares to make her ARCA Menards Series West debut this weekend at Sonoma Raceway. Representing Cook Racing Technologies, she will be behind the wheel of the No. 17 Chevrolet in what is expected to be a highly competitive field featuring names like William Sawalich, Corey Day, Alon Day, and Spencer Gallagher.

The Oklahoma native has already made headlines this season. On May 18, 2024, Bryson became the first woman to win a USAC National Series feature race, claiming victory at the Silver Crown Huncovsky Classic on the Belleville High Banks, a defining moment in her racing career. At the time, she was 23 and competing in the USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship.

Bryson also holds the distinction of being a two-time Chili Bowl A-Main qualifier, further showcasing her skill and consistency on dirt tracks. Now, with her move to asphalt racing, fans and analysts alike are closely watching how she adapts to a new challenge on a road course.

Support for Bryson’s debut has been widespread. Jeff Gluck of The Athletic reshared her announcement on X with the caption, “Cool news here as two-time Chili Bowl A-Main qualifier @kaylee11b is going stock car road racing this week:,” which quickly drew an outpouring of support from fans.

Bryson joins a growing list of women who have made strides in the sport, including trailblazers like Sara Christian, Danica Patrick, Hailie Deegan, Isabella Robusto, Toni Breidinger, Rita Goulet, and Katherine Legge. Though Legge has not yet completed a full race in the Cup Series this season, her performances have offered glimpses of potential.

With Bryson now stepping onto the NASCAR stage, all eyes will be on Sonoma to see how she fares. If her recent accomplishments are any indication, she’s ready for the challenge.