Profile: Ellexandra Best

The Original Best on Track

Meet Ellexandra Best, affectionately known as “Ellex” or “the Original” Best—a name proudly displayed on her V8 SuperUte. Ellexandra is not just a race driver; she’s a driving coach, an ambassador for Girls On Track, and a fierce competitor in the Tyrepower V8 SuperUte Series with Sieders Racing Team.

Growing up in the pits, Ellexandra’s love for motorsport began early. Her father, a racer himself, was her first inspiration. By the age of sixs he was already learning the ropes in the shed at home, and then started go-karting by seven.  From karting, she transitioned to car racing, participating in endurance races in the Australian Production Cars Series and multiple Bathurst 6 Hour events. By the age of 16, she was already making her mark in the Hyundai Excels Series, Toyota 86 Series, and eventually, the V8 SuperUtes. Now, at 24, Ellexandra’s passion for racing burns brighter than ever.

In 2023, Ellexandra was part of the first all-girls team at the Bathurst 6 Hour alongside Courtney Prince and Karli Buccini. The team achieved a remarkable second place in class B1, adding another milestone to her illustrious career.

Racing is more than just a sport for Ellexandra; it’s a family and team affair. The atmosphere, the adrenaline rush, and the thrill of speeding at 250km/h down Conrod Straight are what drive her.

“And of course,” she adds with a smile, “beating the guys!”

This year, Ellexandra is committed to a six-round championship, traveling interstate for each round and testing her Ute. Her local community of Benalla has been supportive, with local businesses backing her and her brother during their races at Winton Motor Raceway.

Ellexandra dreams big. She aspires to race a Porsche, captivated by their beauty and performance. She also aims to expand her coaching career, sharing her experience and skills with aspiring drivers. Her journey is filled with memorable milestones—winning a national karting championship in 2015, clinching the Australian Production Cars Series in class D in 2017, and the camaraderie of a team effort with Lauren Gray Motorsport.

But racing isn’t without its challenges. In 2022, Ellexandra faced her first major crash at the Gold Coast 500 in the V8 SuperUte. It was her first time on a street circuit, and a wrong move on a chicane sent her nose-first into a concrete wall. Despite the bruising and disappointment, her resilience shone through as she continued her racing journey.

The V8 SuperUte paddock stands out with significant female participation, featuring female category managers, drivers, engineers, and mechanics. Ellexandra races a Mazda BT-50, reaching speeds of up to 250km/h at Mount Panorama. The Tyrepower V8 SuperUtes, a growing category, demand a unique driving style, challenging Ellexandra to constantly adapt and improve her skills.

Ellexandra’s achievements are a testament to her dedication. While she hasn’t yet won trophies in the SuperUtes, she consistently fights for top-ten positions, developing her skills with every race.

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Ellexandra offers sage advice:

“You may get knocked around, and some people may not support female participation, but use that for motivation. Show them you’re better. Reach out, make connections, and never let anything hold you back.”

Ellexandra’s journey in motorsport is bolstered by the unwavering support of her incredible sponsors—Blacktown Mazda, Best Leisure Industries, Bundall Dental and Implants—and the relentless encouragement from her parents, family, and friends. Their backing not only fuels her racing ambitions but also strengthens the vibrant community that rallies behind her every race.

Ellexandra is actively looking for more partners and sponsors to join her journey. Follow Ellexandra’s journey and be inspired by her tenacity and passion. Connect with her on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.