Youngster Russell revs through the grades at Cowdenbeath Racewall

Russell, who lives in Longridge, competes in the category which was introduced to attract new drivers into stock car racing at a low cost.

A Prostock Basic is a small engine car with literally all the glass stripped out and an “H” frame and a door plate added to give protection to the driver.

The fuel tank is mounted inside the car and the car has to start with the key. And of course, the driver has to wear fireproof overalls and gloves and a proprietary helmet.

Like drivers of all ages, Russell, who used to spectate at the Racewall with her parents, has had a frustrating time and is itching to get back out on the track.

“I have my car all ready to race and it has been sitting in the garage since the start of last season,” she says.

"I did race twice last year, at the January meeting and at the first meeting of the season but used my old cars instead.

“I am looking forward to our Scottish Championship this year which is to be run over the weekend of the 12/13 June.

"This time we have qualifying heats on Saturday night with the championship on Sunday. I have raced in two Scottish Championships to date and only finished in one of them.

"Prior to this Scottish it was a case of drawing your grid position out of a hat. The first time I drew second on the grid and at the next I drew the highest number and started from the back of the grid.

"In last year’s Scottish I got tangled with another car and crashed out. I hope to change that this year!”

She remembers her first steps into racing very well and is pleased at how she has moved up through the grades.

"I think that this year will be my last in the Basics and then it will be a case of deciding what formula to go into,” she says

And when asked about that all-important first win back in 2019, she says it was “one of the best nights of my life”.

"I remember looking into my mirror with two or three laps left and I saw absolutely nobody. From then on I knew I had it in the bag.

"I got a great reception from the crowd and more importantly my mum and dad came out on to the track after the race to congratulate me.

"That was some night!”