The Wood Brothers Racing family legacy is set to add a new chapter as Giselle Hicks, the great-granddaughter of team founder Glenn Wood, prepares to compete in the Stoops Junior Sprint Invitational at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Dirt Track, July 1–2.
Eighteen of the top Junior Sprint drivers from across the country have been invited to compete in the two-night event, which will feature complete race programs each evening, including group qualifying, heat races, and a 20-lap feature. The Invitational runs alongside the USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship, creating a high-profile stage for young drivers like Giselle to showcase their skills.
The event marks a special moment in the team’s 75th anniversary season, as Giselle becomes the first fourth-generation member of the Wood family to race on the property of the famed venue, where Glenn and his brothers achieved victory in the 1965 Indianapolis 500 as pit crew members on the winning Ford-powered Lotus entry driven by Jim Clark.
In a nod to the team’s NASCAR roots, Giselle will once again race the No. 21, the same number she’s proudly carried throughout her box stock and dirt racing efforts. The number has become a symbol of the family’s identity in motorsports, making her debut at Indianapolis all the more meaningful.
“It’s really cool to get the opportunity to race at Indy,” said Giselle. “I’ve heard stories about this place my whole life, so getting to race here is kind of crazy but super exciting. I just want to go out there, have fun and do my best.”
Still early in her racing journey, the 11-year-old driver has already shown promise in box stock and karting competition, capturing multiple poles and wins, continuing to build on the foundation laid by three generations before her.
For behind-the-scenes content and updates from the track as we celebrate the next generation of racers, follow Giselle on social media Facebook: Giselle Hicks , Instagram: @Giselle_Hicks21 or visit gisellehicksracing.com.