Danica Patrick - Sports Illustrated 1

Danica Patrick, 26, first raced go-karts when her parents decided the family needed a fun way to spend time together. Born in Beloit, Wisc., she raced open-wheel cars in England before making her 2005 IndyCar debut. Patrick was the fourth woman to race in the Indianapolis 500 and first to win an IndyCar race, taking the Indy Japan 300 title in 2008.

Danica Patrick was photographed by Marlena Bielinska in New York City. Swimsuit by Red Carter.