Annie Rhule

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  Annie Rhule is a Pittsburgh-based shifter kart racer who has been competing nationally for over a decade, known for her mentorship of younger female drivers and her ability to overcome the unique challenges of being one of the smallest competitors in her category.

  EARLY YEARS

  Born in the early-to-mid 2000s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Annie was introduced to karting at age 8 when her father took her to Pitt Race to try rental karts in 2013. What started as a casual family outing quickly became the foundation of her racing career. She progressed rapidly through the karting ranks, moving from kit-kat classes through kumar rookie, cadet, and junior karts before eventually advancing to the demanding world of shifter kart racing. Annie attended North Allegheny Cyber Academy, which allowed her the flexibility to pursue her racing ambitions while maintaining her education.

  OTHER INTERESTS

  Information about Annie’s interests outside of motorsports is not publicly available.

  EARLY SUCCESS

  Annie’s transition into shifter kart racing around 2019 marked a significant step in her career development. Despite facing unique challenges due to her petite stature—racing at approximately 98 pounds—she adapted her driving style and equipment setup to compete effectively against larger competitors. Her dedication to the sport caught the attention of AJ Meyers, one of the country’s most respected shifter kart drivers, who became her coach and mentor. By 2015, she was racing professionally for Magik Kart USA, establishing herself as a serious competitor in national shifter kart competition.

  NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 2015: Began racing professionally for Magik Kart USA[3].
  • 2019: Transitioned to shifter kart racing with coaching from AJ Meyers[1].
  • 2023: Recognized as a seasoned racer and active mentor to younger female drivers[1].

  INSPIRATIONS

  AJ Meyers, regarded as one of the best shifter kart drivers in the country, has been Annie’s primary racing influence and mentor. Her father played a crucial role in her introduction to the sport, while family friend Luka Mars provided important connections within the karting community that helped shape her early career.

  REPUTATION

  Annie has built a reputation as both a resilient competitor and a positive role model in motorsports. Her ability to adapt her driving style and equipment setup to overcome physical disadvantages has earned respect within the karting community. She’s particularly recognized for her commitment to mentoring younger female racers, including Kennedy Tracey, using coaching methods that address the specific challenges women face in motorsports. As she explains her approach: “I have to apply the girl side of it because the way guys handle things isn’t always the right way.” Her decade of experience and willingness to share knowledge has made her a sought-after mentor and advocate for women in racing.

  FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

  Annie continues to compete nationally in shifter kart racing while expanding her role as a mentor to younger female drivers. Her current plans beyond 2024 have not been publicly disclosed.

  References:

  [1] Women’s Motorsports Network podcast with Annie Rhule & Kennedy Tracey
  [2] KC Happy Hour Kart Chaser video
  [3] North Allegheny Cyber Academy report in Uproar
  [4] Openfender racer profile