Danica Patrick is not the typical race car driver. For one, she’s a she, which is good for the sport and for women. For two, she isn’t hard on the eyes. And three, she knows it.

Well, I’m not making the assessment that she is in any way conceited or arrogant, but if she doesn’t know she’s attractive, FHM, Sports Illustrated, and all those who buy those magazines sure do.

It seems that Miss Patrick is becoming known more for her looks than for her racing ability, which is average at best.
Sports Illustrated just gave her a six-page spread for their swimsuit issue. And, well, she doesn’t disappoint.

But is is receiving a little flack from some of her peers and role-models such as female Indy 500 pioneer, Lyn St. James.

Many young women have approached St. James asking if taking Danica’s approach would be good for their careers. St. James told the Toledo Free Press, “Is it something I would recommend somebody to do? No. It’s not right or wrong, or bad or good. It’s different from what we’re used to in our sport.”

Yeah, different in Indy racing, but this type of sexualization of athletes is par for the course in other sports such as tennis, volleyball, swimming and track & field.

Wake up Indy Racing League, this double standard is unbecoming of you!
Your car’s ad space is sold to the highest bidder, and your sport exists entirely though sponsorships!
And didn’t I see Helio Castroneves on dancing with the stars?
What the *#$% was that!?

You gotta hottie! She gets publicity!
What more could you want?
(Besides higher ratings)