While a lot of eyes were focused on the men of the Norris family, Emma Norris caught everyone’s attention by season’s end in Ontario Pro Challenge Racing action in 2023.

“As I look back on the season I’m definitely really proud of myself and the Norris racing team,” she told SHORT TRACK MUSINGS. “I accomplished so much and I’m really proud of how much progress I’ve made. I had my first win, set my fastest lap time, had my first DNF, and so many more things. My team had so many accomplishments as well – rookie of the year, Regional and National champion, three cars finishing the top 5. It really was a great season.”

Norris was able to experience success behind the wheel this past season, scoring a trio of victories throughout the summer. Her favourite of those, was the first victory which came on May 27.

“Not only does it mark a huge accomplishment in my racing career, but it was also such a memorable day,” she recalled. “My first win was the first feature event of our series Jim Norris Memorial night. Jim Norris is my papa who me and my family lost one year prior to my win. It was so special and it couldn’t have happened on a better day and I know he was riding along with me. I was also the first female to win a feature event in Ontario Pro Challenge history.”

Being able to experience the success this season as she entered her sophomore campaign on the tour came via having trust in the car, allowed her to get faster with each weekend of experience under her belt.

“I ran on the top side a lot this season and it’s very hard to drive up there so having trust in my car, knowing that the set up is correct and the car is able to do what it needs to do helped a lot,” she explained. “Without gaining trust in my car and my ability, I wouldn’t be where I am.”

Coming off the 10 top-five finishes, Norris admits she’s excited to get out there this year in knowing what she is capable of behind the wheel.

“We have more drivers starting and all the rookies from last year who will be getting better making the races more challenging and way more fun,” she commented. “I can’t wait to see myself improve even more and hopefully win some more races, maybe even test the waters in some other series as well.”

It has already been confirmed that both her father Tim Norris and brother Mike Norris will also return, hopeful of repeating the success they experienced last year with six wins each.

“Racing with them is awesome,” she reflected. “They have each taught me so much, good and bad. It was such a good feeling when I finally beat the both of them. They are such good drivers and each have such raw talent for the sport I never thought I would ever beat them. They help me the most out of anyone and I know I wouldn’t be where I am without them. I definitely did learn more from my brother he was more patient and easier to follow around the track.

“I love having them as my team and coming home to stay up for hours talking about how we all did that night.”

As for the best piece of advice they have given her, it was not to panic, arc it in, and stay calm when bad things happen.

“That helped me a lot when I got into wrecks or when I was getting pushed around on the track,” she commented. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard them say “arc it in” it’s permanently burned into my brain I’ve heard it so many times. But without that I wouldn’t have been able to figure out my lines and ultimately be as successful as i have been.”

Beyond the Ontario Pro Challenge Series, Norris has expressed interest in the OSCAAR Hot Rods, having always enjoyed watching them race. However, she admits she “wouldn’t turn down any kind of opportunity” that heads her way.

As she looks to build on her success, her advice to those getting started is to never give up, and always give it your 110%.

“No matter what – even on your bad days, you always have to try,” she commented. “It’s the only way to get better and reach your goals. The moment you stop trying is when all your hard work and progress goes away.”