By M&C People Apr 20, 2008, 16:49 GMT
Stunning brunette Danica Patrick has conquered a record never attained by any woman.
Driver Danica Patrick -Danica Patrick made IndyCar history 20 April 2008 by becoming the first female winner when taking the Indy Japan 300. EPA/JUSTIN LANE
Patrick crossed the finish line Sunday at the Japan 300 in Motegi, she took her seat as the first female driver in Indy car history to win, when she took top spot on the track.
"Boys, move over. The lady is coming through. Danica Patrick wins the Twin Motegi," the announcer said as she crossed the finish line.
With her proud mum in the crowd cheering her on, the Wisconsin girl took the lead and finished 5.8594 seconds ahead of pole-sitter Helio Castroneves on the 1.5-mile Twin Ring Motegi oval, after others had to pit stop for fuel in their final laps.
Patrick spoke with reporters following her victory. "Finally," said Patrick, who, at one point in the race, was as low as eighth place. "It's a long time coming."
The win came on her 50th professional start.
Since Patrick came on the scene, she has received tons of attention and curiosity, but victory alluded her.
In 2005 she became only the fourth woman to ever race in the Indy 500; she finished fourth and took rookie of the year honors.
Now, the driver has marked her place in history and her colleagues praised her win.
"She did a great job, passed me fair and square, and that shows you how competitive our series is," Castroneves told the Associated Press.
Patrick remembered her peers she competed with in her remarks. "Thank you to all my teammates, and ... finally," she said.
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