Danica Patrick isn't getting a lot of respect, despite finishing a solid eighth place in last weekend's Indy 500, so writes Chicago Tribune columnist Mike Downey. He attributes it in part to sexism, and he may be right. Patrick may be a determined and talented racer, but unfortunately, racing fans, fellow drivers and the public at large may not be able to see past her striking looks to see what she has accomplished.
Despite the criticism, each time Patrick heads out onto the track, she is setting an example for young women who may aspire to race or to participate in other male-dominated sports. Each time Patrick finishes a race, regardless if she finishes first, tenth or last, she is opening a door to young girls to try something different, to BE someone different. And in the larger scheme of things, that will have more long-standing impact on our society and on sports.
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