Val Leifso: Demolition Derby Queen

“Val has carved out a thrilling niche in the world of demolition derby. It only started a few short
years ago when her boyfriend built her first truck. She loves the thrill of the competition. “My
first five minutes in a derby truck, I was rolled…and I loved it”.
As the only regular girl in a male-dominated sport, she faces challenges head-on, proving herself
time and again. “So far there are only one of two reactions; the guys either like that they are
competing with a girl and embrace it or they come after me and don’t even have the courtesy to
shake my hand after I kick their butt”. Her skill behind the wheel and strategic prowess quickly
earned her respect among most drivers and fans alike.
Off the track, she has become a role model for many, but especially the average mom or young
girl who thinks the sport is intimidating. “Last weekend I put a young 16 year old boy from my
pit crew in my truck and he won the grudge. I was so happy to be able to do that for him”.
Whether she's repairing messes or fearlessly crashing into the competition, she embodies the
spirit of resilience and good sportsmanship.
With numerous victories under her belt and a trail of smashed trucks, Val continues to learn more
about the sport every time she gets behind the wheel. “I would like to challenge myself at
tougher shows and I would like to get behind being a lead roll in organizing Powder Puff classes
at numerous derbies”.