Lauri Eberhart Launches Women in Motorsports North America Chapter on Monterey Peninsula

In a groundbreaking step for local motorsport enthusiasts, Lauri Eberhart, newly appointed CEO of Friends of Laguna Seca and a founding board member of Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA), has established a local chapter of WIMNA on the Monterey Peninsula. This initiative aims to bring together women passionate about motorsports and provide a platform for networking, mentorship, and collaboration.

The inaugural Meet & Greet took place last week at the C restaurant + bar inside the InterContinental Hotel on Cannery Row. Women from Laguna Seca, as well as notable car week events, marketing groups, journalists and beyond, gathered to share stories and discuss ideas for building a strong community that will connect, enable, and advance women in motorsports. The event’s turnout reflected the area’s enthusiasm, with over 50 women now on the chapter’s email list—30 of whom attended the initial meeting.

As Eberhart commented, “We see this as an opportunity to foster connections, highlight women’s contributions to motorsports, and inspire new generations.” This chapter is expected to provide significant opportunities for engagement, mentorship, and visibility for women within the local automotive and motorsports scene. With a solid start, the group is poised to grow and contribute meaningfully to the Monterey Peninsula’s motorsport legacy.