We Talk Jzilla Ladies Track Day and Traylor Motorsports with Track Enthusiast Brianda Traylor
Tell us about yourself
My name is Brianda Traylor. I am a Texas native who currently resides in Marietta, GA, where I have lived for ten years. I am married to my wonderful husband, Reid Traylor, and we have four kids under the age of nine.
How did you get into cars?
My dad and uncle were always in the car scene, so I grew up knowing the differences between various makes and models. However, I didn’t really get “into it” until I started attending the TX2K event hosted by Peter Blach and his family. The event is like the World Series of street racing. In 2013, I met my husband there, and the rest is history.
What are you currently driving?
My husband and I have quite a few vehicles, but I technically own and drive two the most: a 2017 Porsche Macan GTS, which is a fantastic daily driver, and a 2004 Ford Excursion 6.0L diesel, which is perfect for hauling my four kids around and serves as a backup tow rig.
If you could own any car, what would it be?
Oh, this is difficult because it would depend on the purpose. Am I daily driving it? Am I hauling the kids around? Currently, I have my eyes set on a Porsche 911. Last time I had a “dream car,” I bought it—LOL. I currently have my dream car, the Macan GTS.
How long have you been involved with Jzilla?
My first track day with Jzilla was in June 2017. I was in the green group, which is the color code generally given to the group of first timers or those with minimal previous experience. My husband was in the blue group, which is usually the color for those who have some experience, but were still getting instruction. He was driving an E36, and I was driving an E46. I have a photo from that day; it’s framed and in the front room of my house.
Why was the Ladies Track Day important to you?
The Jzilla Ladies Day is funny because I remember asking James (editors note: James Marcellana – Owner – Jzilla Track Days) for a green-only day, or novice only day, or a day really dedicated to women or people who had no idea about “track days.” I wanted to invite other friends to see what I did on the weekends. Once James secured a day and a track, I was so excited. Where can I help? I am all about creating a fun, safe place for women to enjoy motorsports and see the amazing community Jzilla has built.
Tell us about Traylor Motorsports
Throughout the past six years, my husband and I have purchased, maintained, and modified countless cars, developing a reputation for our skills and enthusiasm. Recognizing the potential in our passion, I thought, “We should get the proper credentials and do this for real.” Not long afterward, we put our plan into action, and on January 1st, 2019, Traylor Motorsports LLC was born.
We typically buy cars from auctions, enjoy them, and then sell them. We’ve also imported over 15 vehicles from the Netherlands, which has been a challenging but rewarding experience. This aspect of our business has broadened our expertise and allowed us to explore different automotive markets. Traylor Motorsports: By enthusiasts. For enthusiasts.
Do you have any tips or advice for other women and/or moms who are trying to break into this hobby?
Driving is scary; driving fast is scarier. However, when you pair it with an instructor and a community of people who want to help you achieve your goals at your pace, it’s amazing! My advice would be to start by attending events, even if you’re not driving. Come to any Jzilla event and hang out with us. Ride along with someone to get a feel of the track and the environment. It’s important to immerse yourself in the community and learn from others’ experiences.
When I first started, I would come to events just to hang out and learn without driving. In the last year, I’ve taken it more seriously. My husband and our friends used to call me “one lap panda” or “one session panda” because I was timid and wouldn’t get on the track much. But once I did 5+ laps, I was hooked. Now, I’m focused on improving my skills, such as nailing down my turn-ins, apexes, and smoothing out my shifting. My times are getting consistently faster, and it’s such a high. The key is to start slowly, find a supportive community, and enjoy the process.
If you could change one thing about the car scene, what would it be?
I’m not sure if this aligns with the “car scene,” but I wish motorsports as a whole had more coverage and screen time like major sports. I’d want a channel/network that provides updates on all things racing—F1, NASCAR, Rally, IMSA—you name it.
Details for the Upcoming Jzilla Ladies Track Day Presented by Shift Brokers
Come join Brianda and other women track enthusiasts on Sunday August 25th at Atlanta Motorsports Park. Run groups will include casual novices with no experience with non-track prepped cars all the way up to an experienced drivers run group. It’s one of the few, if not only, all women’s track days to offer different run groups for different experience levels. So, whether you are brand new to tracking or looking to connect with other serious women track enthusiasts, there may be no better event.
A number of women specific car clubs and organizations are planning to attend, including ShiftWomen, Women’s Bimmer Club, Women of Lucky Dog Racing League and more. So expect a diverse group of women car enthusiasts participating.
Registration is currently open. More details and registration link below.
This is a non profit event. Proceeds are being donated to My Sisters House; an emergency shelter for women and children in Atlanta.
About Jzilla Ladies Track Day Presented By Shift Brokers
When: Sunday August 25th
Where: Atlanta Motorsports Park
Skill Level: First timer to experienced
Fees: $275 (includes lunch, beverages, and complimentary wet skid pad access)
Registration: https://www.motorsportreg.com/events/jzilla-ladies-day-presented-by-shift-brokers-atlanta-motorsports-park-track-days-180675
Track Day Insurance: Track day insurance is available from the events title sponsor Shift Brokers.
