Episode 4 – The Heart of Teamwork
Episode 4 peels back the layers of what it really takes to be successful in racing—from the driver to the crew to the team owner. Racing is a unique blend of individual skill and collective effort, and this episode captures that beautifully. The Mazda MX-5 Cup is a spec series, making teamwork—even across team lines—essential. The episode’s title rings true: To finish first, first you have to finish.
We see both Heather and Sally navigating the season’s midpoint at Mid-Ohio, a technically challenging track. Sally finishes strong in 12th after overcoming engine issues. Heather struggles with qualifying and ends up 20th, highlighting how mentally tough this sport can be, especially when teammates are celebrating wins. Both drivers open up about the importance—and challenge—of marketing themselves, managing sponsorships, and staying authentic in the spotlight.
Episode 5 – Highs, Lows & Human Moments
This episode gives us a deeper look into the personal lives of the drivers. We see Sally’s budding relationship and Heather’s college graduation. The storytelling is enhanced by beautiful visuals, including aerial shots, and there’s a lighthearted dynamic between Sally and her crew chief.
The racing action takes us to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP), a track rich in history. Sally secures a season-best 6th place, while Heather suffers a significant crash when her tire comes off in Race 2. Despite the setback, she heads into the next race at VIR with renewed focus. Meanwhile, Sally carries momentum from her CTMP finish.
Episode 5 also includes a special moment: a Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) panel that highlights the diverse roles women play in racing. It’s a feel-good moment that underscores the episode’s themes of growth and representation. However, the joy is short-lived as Sally and Heather collide on-track—an incident Sally owns up to, showing maturity despite the setback.
Episode 6 – The Final Stretch
The season finale brings the action to Road Atlanta during the IMSA Petit Le Mans weekend. Emotions run high as the pressures of the season peak. Sally crashes out in Race 1 and is visibly shaken, replaying the footage and doubting herself. It’s a moment that hits home for me—I had a similar crash at Road Atlanta in the early ’80s and know how hard it is to move past the “what ifs.”
As the season wraps, the drivers attend the year-end banquet. Sally finishes 12th in the standings and earns top-finishing female honors. She also announces new plans for 2025 with a different team. The episode closes with celebration, reflection, and a sense of accomplishment—not just for the drivers, but for the entire paddock.
Final Thoughts
First to the Finish captures the raw, real journey of female racers striving for greatness in a male-dominated sport. With stellar cinematography, honest interviews, and compelling storylines, the series shows the grit, passion, and teamwork that fuel the Mazda MX-5 Cup. It’s a must-watch for motorsports fans—and I can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!
