For over half a century, Hot Wheels has been at the forefront of car culture, pushing the limits of performance and design while igniting the imaginations of enthusiasts around the globe. Since its inception in 1968, Hot Wheels has produced billions of die-cast cars, setting industry standards and epitomizing automotive passion and innovation. This year, Hot Wheels is teaming up with two exceptional local female racers to inspire future generations and prove that anyone can become a legend.
Driven to be Legendary
As Women’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women in motoring. Hot Wheels recognizes the remarkable talent within South Africa’s automotive industry, from racing to customization and drifting. Their latest initiative brings them together with Paige Lindenberg and Stacey-lee May, two trailblazing women who are redefining standards in the motoring world.
Paige Lindenberg
Being legendary is about more than just success on the track; it’s about inspiring others, breaking boundaries, leaving a lasting impact, and exemplifying excellence. Paige Lindenberg, a prominent South African racing driver and member of Lindenberg Racing and Shelby South Africa, embodies this legendary spirit. “My motto in life has always been – Nothing is impossible. I believe in taking opportunities, believing in yourself, and doing what it takes to reach your goals. Often, I find myself outside my comfort zone, but I push through those uneasy moments to strive for what I want to achieve. It’s not always easy, but I have a strong head and determination. Inspiring others drives me daily.”
For Lindenberg, being legendary means more than just winning races. “A legend is someone you look up to, aspire to be like, or learn from. Racing requires a range of skills, from fitness to reflexes to driving prowess, but being a legend involves much more. It takes people skills, confidence, and more. I hope I’ve managed to master some of these to be seen as legendary by many people beyond my racing achievements.”
Stacey-Lee May
Stacey-lee May, another pioneering South African driver and drag racer, shares a similar drive. “What drives me to be legendary is the community I come from. I’m from Eldorado Park, known for drugs and gangsterism. My goal is to show the world that greatness lies within you, not around you. By God’s grace, we stand out. Being legendary means doing what most are afraid of, taking risks, and believing in yourself. It means going the extra mile to be remembered as someone who never allowed excuses or failures to define their future.”
May’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. “To be a modern-day legend in racing means going out there and being great no matter what happens. Whether you win or lose the race, the most important thing is that you kept your head up and did your best. Great racers are made; it takes time to become great. No matter how many times you get knocked down, you always stand up with your head high and try again.”
Hot, hotter, Hot Wheels
Hot Wheels continues to inspire enthusiasts of all ages with races involving cars of all sizes, spanning generations. Both Lindenberg and May are deeply involved in community initiatives, encouraging enthusiasts to chase their dreams. “I try and be as approachable and available as possible when people have questions or want a few minutes of your time. I love inspiring and helping others, and it’s so rewarding to have seen the impact I have made on others over the years. I so wish I had the means to help every person who I interact with get their dreams off the ground, but I do what I can to advise, show support, and offer encouragement in any way I can,” says Lindenberg.
Hot Wheels remains a beacon of creativity, passion, and legendary status. The brand’s commitment to excellence and its influence on car culture worldwide ensure that with Hot Wheels, the automotive space is where legends will continue to be made. As we celebrate Women’s Day, let’s honor the women who are racing towards greatness and inspiring the next generation to follow in their tire tracks.
