Alison Lee
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Alison Lee was a pioneering female figure in Top Fuel racing, known for exceptional tuning skills and being the first “First Lady” of the sport.
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At first, all I knew about working on cars was to put water in that little round hole at the front of the motor
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FULL BIO: Alison Lee
Alison Lee was a pioneering figure in drag racing known as the “First Lady of Top Fuel Racing,” who transitioned from competitive horse riding to becoming an essential part of a championship-winning Top Fuel team alongside her husband Jim Lee.
EARLY YEARS
Born to parents who valued competition and speed, Alison began riding horses competitively at age 5. Her equestrian skills were nurtured by her grandfather Robert Winmill, who gifted her a pure black thoroughbred named Cravalley. In 1959, she married Jim Lee, a street rodder whose passion for racing would soon become her own.
EARLY SUCCESS
Despite having no prior mechanical experience, Alison quickly learned the intricacies of drag racing by assisting Jim and learning from legends like Don Garlits and Chris Karamesines. After Jim’s accident in 1965, the Lees decided to step up as owner/operators in Top Fuel racing, hiring drivers while Alison developed her tuning expertise. Their Top Fuel debut came at the 1967 March Meet, where they qualified in the No. 8 spot.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
- 1967: Won with driver Hank Westmoreland at the Island Dragway points meet[1].
- 1967: Set a national record in BB/FD trim at U.S. 30 Dragstrip with a 6.88 run on August 12[1].
- 1969: Reset the national record with a 6.64 run in Atco, N.J., with driver Tom Raley[1].
- 1970: Broke their own record with a 6.63, again in Atco, N.J., with driver Tom Raley[1].
- 1970: Lowered the national record to a 6.53 at the World Finals in Dallas in October with driver Tom Raley[1].
- 1969-1970: Won Division 1 championships with driver Tom Raley[1].
- 1977: Won another division crown with driver Lee Weller[1].
REPUTATION
Alison was revered in the motorsports community for her exceptional tuning abilities and leadership skills in a male-dominated sport. Her dedication to drag racing and expertise in managing her team earned her legendary status. Despite having no formal mechanical training, she became one of the most respected tuners in Top Fuel racing, helping to set multiple national records and winning numerous championships.
FUTURE GOALS/PLANS
References:
Remembering Alison Lee, the first First Lady of Top Fuel racing
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