Young girls bring speed, confidence to Tulsa Shootout
Young racers Estela Stillwell and Brighton Hazelwood, both 8, showcase their passion for speed and competition at the Tulsa Shootout.
January 2, 2026 - Ryan Gillin - News On 6 - TULSA, OKla. - The SageNet Center at Expo Square was packed with roaring engines, flying dirt and hundreds of racing fans as drivers from across the country compete in the Tulsa Shootout. Among them are two 8-year-old girls proving that a love for speed starts early.
Estela Stillwell traveled from North Carolina for her first Tulsa Shootout after discovering racing videos online and convincing her dad to let her try the sport. She’s been racing for about a year and a half.
“I love it so much because I get to believe in myself, and I have courage,” Stillwell said. “And I get to really, really have chances of winning.”
Stillwell says the thrill of being out front, feeling the breeze, keeps her coming back. She already knows what she’s racing for.
“Winning the Golden Driller mostly,” Stillwell said.
Another first-time Shootout competitor is Brighton Hazelwood, also 8, who made the trip from Connecticut and spent the final weekend of winter break racing instead of relaxing at home.
Hazelwood is in third grade and says the sport is fun.
“I like it because I like going fast and I like beating the boys,” Hazelwood said.
Hazelwood names her cars after dogs. The one she raced in Tulsa is called Marley.
The Tulsa Shootout features hundreds of racers from around the country, all competing for a Golden Driller trophy.
Both girls say the reason they race is the same as everyone else: they love it, and at just eight years old, they’re already chasing big dreams at full speed.
