While drivers do get a lot of attention in motorsport, mechanics must be considered the unsung heroes of the sport considering they are integral to the successful running of cars. 
  
And one mechanic who dedicates herself to many areas of the sport, including as a driver and champion of inclusion is Maisie Place.  
  
Having only been actively involved in the sport for just four years, Place has already gone a long way in impressing many with her dedication to the sport. 
  
As a competitor, Place currently races in the New South Wales RX8 Cup, where she heads up a three-car team and is hands on in working helping many teams and their cars. 
  
Of course, the RX8 Cup isn’t the only place she spends time behind the wheel, with the experienced steerer having also participated in dirt rallies as both a driver and a co-driver. 
  
She isn’t one to just make up the numbers either with success often following her– some notable results being a victory as a co-driver in the 2019 Narooma Rally. 
  
An ambassador for a variety of companies, including Race Chix Motorsport, Place is not only a well respected driver, but a highly sought after mechanic and a loyal servant to the sport, committing a large portion of her time to mentoring, coaching and helping other drivers at any available opportunity.  
  
Her passion and dedication for the sport was also recognised this year as she was named as the winner of 2022 Coral Taylor Award at the New South Wales and ACT State Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance.   
  
The award is given to a woman from the New South Wales or ACT for their outstanding achievement in motorsport and Place was thrilled to have been the latest recipient.  


  
“It was quite a surprise to win the award and a really big deal for me because I have always been a fan of Coral Taylor due to how much she has done for women,” Place said.  
  
“To be honest, I have worked so hard over the past few years, so when I was told I was the recipient of the award, I did cry a little bit - being recognised for something your so passionate about is a really special feeling.  
  
“I started doing motorkhanas when I was 14-years-old, then progressed to track days at 16 and just one year later, I did my first race and have never looked back. 
  
“I feel like I have come a long way. Confidence wise I have come far. From that first motorkhana to running a three-car team, I feel I have achieved a lot in a small amount of time.

“Helping other people get into motorsport is quite rewarding. I am trying to inspire other women like Coral did to me. I’d like to prove to the men within the category that we belong there too, so I love seeing girls moving up.  
  
“With that said, I find this community really inclusive. In fact I was pleasantly surprised how motorsport inclusive and I get heaps of support from the men around here.  
  
“Honestly though, having a female presence in motorsport is very important because girls are capable of putting their minds to anything.  
  
“For me, I did always go to events growing up but I didn’t think it was possible. I never would become a race car driver but here we are with this growing career and long may it continue.”