Racer Profile: Nikki Garnham

A Speedway Powerhouse Defying Expectations

Motorsport is often seen as a male-dominated field, but women like Nikki Garnham are proving that speed and adrenaline know no gender. Nikki’s journey into the fast-paced world of speedway racing is nothing short of inspiring—a story of passion, persistence, and honoring her father’s legacy.

Nikki’s love for speedway began at an early age, watching her father race Light Speed Trucks. That spark of excitement ignited a flame in her heart, and after her father’s passing, she chose to follow in his tire tracks. From the emotional depth of losing a parent to the determination to keep his spirit alive, Nikki dove headfirst into the RSA Street Stockers, then found her true calling in RSA Fender Benders. Six seasons later, she’s still behind the wheel, racing alongside men, defying expectations, and loving every second of it.

 

“I love racing for the adrenaline rush, the thrill, and the feeling of being close to my dad, even though he’s no longer with us,” Nikki explains. It’s this connection, this fire, that drives her to keep pushing limits on the track.

But Nikki’s role in speedway extends far beyond the racetrack. As the Secretary/Treasurer of the Northwest Speedway Club in Narrabri, she’s fully immersed in the sport, making sure the insurances, permits, and programs are all in order for race day. This behind-the-scenes work is just as crucial to the success of the sport, and she takes on this role with pride and dedication.

Friends may think she’s crazy for chasing her dreams at such high speeds, but for Nikki, it’s about much more than the trophies. “Coming home with a trophy is a bonus, but as long as you had fun, that’s the main thing,” she says. Her ultimate dream of racing alongside her dad may not have been realized, but she achieved another lifelong goal by competing in a Caravan Derby—an experience she’ll never forget.

Nikki’s achievements include a third-place finish in that same Caravan Derby, but it’s the joy and camaraderie of the sport that fuel her passion. Fender Benders are a contact-permitted division, meaning the fun comes not just from speed, but from spinning and being spun by competitors. This chaos, the thrill of the unexpected, is what makes Nikki fall in love with the sport again and again.

What’s more, Nikki’s journey in motorsport wouldn’t be possible without the support of her incredible team: her brother Lesley Garnham and partner John Purvis, who build the car, supply parts, and crew in the pits. Chloe Fardell also pitches in, helping Lesley on race day. It’s a family affair, one built on hard work, shared passion, and mutual support.

To the women out there thinking about breaking into motorsport: **go for it.** Nikki’s advice is simple but powerful: “Just go out and have fun.” Motorsports isn’t just about the finish line, it’s about the journey, the thrill, and the bond with those around you.

Nikki’s story is a reminder that the track doesn’t belong to any one gender—it belongs to those brave enough to chase their dreams. Whether you’re spinning cars on the dirt or working behind the scenes to ensure a successful race day, there’s a place for you in the motorsport world. If Nikki’s story teaches us anything, it’s that the only limits are the ones you place on yourself.

Let Nikki’s story ignite that fire within you. Racing isn’t just for the boys—it’s for anyone who has the guts to chase the rush and make it their own.