Interview with
Tanya Shaul

Originally by April Doctor May 1998
Updated by Patt Buell
Published March 12, 2004

A member of Nebraska Region since June 1995, Tanya Shaul is a very competitive driver. In 1998 she was driving a 1988 white Chevy Corvette in Super Stock. When Tanya is not busy with SCCA activities or working as an industrial engineer at Lozier Corporation, she enjoys swimming, is a member of the Optimist Club (a youth organization), and a member of the Cornhusker Corvette Club.

When Tanya was first interviewed she said, "I got into this sport after watching my boyfriend run solos for three years before deciding to try it myself." Then she competed for almost a year before joining the NRSCCA.

"The best way to get someone to try auto crossing is to take them for a ride." Tanya definitely thinks that everyone should try it at least once. "Not only is it fun, but it prepares you for the actual road. You know how you and your car will react in an emergency."

"Having fun is the most important thing though," she says. "If people are too serious about it, it's no fun. It's not like there is money involved and there is a big pay-off at the end of the day," she smiles.

At this time when asked what her favorite event was, she replied, "Actually the last three have been my favorite, because I'm finally driving really well, and the car is getting more competitive."

I asked Tanya if she had kids, would she encourage them to try it, and she said yes. But here is the real question would you let them drive the Vette? "No. They should start with a bad car, and work their way up!"

Tanya's goal was to one day beat her boyfriend or maybe Bill Pemberton, another good solo driver. "Every time my boyfriend jumps into my car, he beats me. It helps me learn how to improve, but it makes me mad!"

However exciting and fun, people also add to the experience. She describes an autocross "Like a roller coaster, only you are in control, which can be a good thing or a bad thing."

When I asked Tanya her opinion on ladies classes, she answered that she thought there shouldn't be any difference between men and women, but from society's influences, it is generally more acceptable for men. The ladies classes provide them a place to get started where it is not so competitive and intimidating. When it comes to lady drivers Tanya says "The more the merrier. Get out there and kick butt!"

When it comes to people who do more than their share, Tanya's name is definitely on the list. She has been an officer and on the Board of Governors of Nebraska Region.

Tanya can frequently be seen at events, running back and forth between corners, in the timing van or anywhere else she is needed. She is truly a great driver, a heck of a nice person and a great asset to the NRSCCA.

She has traded up to a black Corvette so when you see her at an event tell her hello!