Meag,

Have you considered drag racing? It's a little easier to get started in than most forms of circle track racing because you can race your street car. You don't need a dedicated race car, tow vehicle, trailer etc to go racing. Most tracks offer some sort of bracket race where you can run what ya brung and have a chance to be competitive. It's a great way to get your feet wet in racing and meet some other folks who share your interest. Not wanting to focus on the gender thing, but there are a good number of women who are very successful in Drag racing all the way up to the highest levels of the sport.

One of the other suggestions I have is to drop into the local speed shop and hang out some and get to know folks.

Good luck with your dream!

Pat