Brentwood girl, 17, collecting multiple wins in world of sprint car racing

At just 17 years old, Adrianna DeMartini has already built a name for herself on California’s dirt tracks, competing in winged sprint cars and holding her own against seasoned drivers.

For the Brentwood native, racing started as a hobby but quickly grew into something much more — a passion she hopes to carry far into the future. DeMartini, a senior at Pleasanton Virtual Academy who is set to graduate in December, began racing at age 13 after years of watching her father compete.

“I’d always go to the races to watch my dad race,” she said. “I’ve always loved the cars and going to the races. Seeing the thrill of competition inspired me to try it myself, and once I got behind the wheel I was hooked.”

Racing runs deep in the DeMartini family. DeMartini is a fourth-generation racer, and her father, Matt, competed on local tracks for years before stepping back to support his daughter’s career.

“I help her with racing,” he said. “I’m usually in the garage with her, making sure the car’s ready to go: everything from maintenance to set-up. I also give her tips on driving and handling situations on the track. Mostly I just try to support her and make sure she has what she needs to succeed.”

Her father said he takes pride in seeing his daughter’s dedication.

“Honestly, I love seeing how passionate she is about it and watching her improve every time she hits the track,” Matt DeMartini said. “She’s focused, competitive and really dedicated. It’s also something special that we can share together — I get to be part of it with her, and that means a lot to me.”

Adrianni DeMartini’s mother, Theresa, admitted she wasn’t exposed to racing until she met her husband but has since then embraced the sport wholeheartedly.

“It’s been so fun watching Adrianna grow in this sport,” her mother said. “She gets out in the garage and helps maintain and wash the car after every race, interacts with fans and gives it her all out there on the track.”

Though she sometimes worries about the risks, Theresa DeMartini said she has confidence in her daughter’s ability.

“I get nervous sometimes when the car flips, which, thank God, hasn’t been often,” she said. “Other than that, she does really good at avoiding accidents on the track.”

DeMartini remembers her first race vividly.

“My first race was exciting but nerve-wracking,” she said. “I remember the adrenaline, focus and feeling a rush like nothing else. I forget where I finished, but it’s been up from there.”

Since then, she has collected multiple wins, including main events at Dixon Speedway (about 35 miles from Sacramento in Solano County) and numerous heat and dash victories across California. One accomplishment stands above the rest: winning a recent Non-Wing Nationals competition (for an explanation of winged versus nonwinged sprint car racing, visit bit.ly/4pNLz2h online).

“That win means the most to me because it was a really tough race,” she said. “There were a lot of cars, and winning it showed me how much hard work and practice pays off.”

Like many athletes her age, DeMartini faces the challenge of balancing her sport with school and personal life. She says online learning at Pleasanton Virtual Academy has helped her carve out time for racing.

“I do online school, so during the day I’ll be out in the garage with my dad working on my 360 winged sprint car to get it ready for the race weekend, then doing my homework at night,” she said. “Having supportive parents helps a lot too.”

Racing brings its own challenges as well, from learning new tracks quickly to maintaining focus under pressure.

“I overcome them by staying focused, learning from mistakes and staying mentally prepared,” she said.

For DeMartini, the most exciting part of racing is the combination of speed and competition.

“Feeling the car push to its limits while trying to outsmart other drivers and get better each lap is an incredible feeling,” she said.

Off the track, she enjoys spending time with friends, listening to music and going on drives. DeMartini said her peers at school don’t treat her like a celebrity but are supportive.

“They show interest in my racing, which is really fun,” she said. “They’re supportive and cheer me on.”

Though still in high school, DeMartini has her sights set on racing and a career outside the sport.

“In racing, I want to be competitive everywhere I go and win some more races,” she said. “Beyond racing, I want to go to nursing school and become an ER (emergency room) nurse.”

She also has immediate goals — including an upcoming race at the Antioch Speedway. For now, she says she remains grateful for the opportunities she’s had and the support that surrounds her.

“My dad is the reason I got into racing and the only reason I’m able to do what I love,” she said. “My parents have been amazing supporters. They help with travel, in the garage, funds and everything else I need for racing. Their encouragement keeps me motivated. I couldn’t do it without them.”

Encouraging other young people pursuing big dreams, DeMartini emphasizes tenacity.

“Work hard, stay focused and don’t be afraid to make mistakes — they’re the best way to learn,” she said. “Always stay passionate and persistent.”

Beyond racing, she wants people to see her as more than just a competitor.

“I want people to know that I’m a nice person, very dedicated and love racing,” she said. “But I also value my family, friends and life outside the track.”

Follow DeMartini on social media at facebook.com/kaylee.bunch.98.

Reach Charleen Earley, a freelance writer and journalism professor at Diablo Valley college, at charleenbearley@gmail.com or 925-383-3072.