Practice for the 2024 Indianapolis 500 hadn’t even started when the media chatted with Katherine Legge about her fourth try at the big race. She had to retire early in 2023, and she didn’t want to leave it like that.
“I didn’t want to go out like that,” Legge said. “I want people to remember me for what I’m actually capable of rather than the disaster of last year’s race.”
She was hopeful this time around, despite feeling like a rookie after last year’s mishap. Her car was sponsored by e.l.f. Cosmetics, and she was excited to see what they could achieve together.
But things didn’t go as planned. Her car’s engine failed on the 23rd lap, and she had to retire. It was disappointing, but Legge found redemption in her sponsorship with e.l.f. Cosmetics.
Back in 1977, Janet Guthrie faced similar challenges. She broke barriers as one of the first women to compete in the Indianapolis 500. Despite not finishing, she proved that women belonged in the race.
Guthrie’s accomplishment paved the way for others, showing that with the right support, women could race Indy cars too. Legge’s journey echoes Guthrie’s. She started karting as a kid and worked her way up through the racing world.
Her partnership with e.l.f. Cosmetics made waves at the Indy 500. Their activation at the track welcomed fans of all ages and genders, showing that racing isn’t just for men.
Legge’s impact goes beyond her performance on the track. She’s changing the culture of motorsport, just like Guthrie did. And who knows? Maybe next year, Legge will make history with a career-best finish. If anyone can do it, it’s Katherine Legge.
