Speeding Beyond the Track: A Conversation with Motorsport Trailblazer Jess Golding

From the day Jess Golding was gifted a Go kart, she set out on what would become a lifelong commitment to motorsport. Fast-forwarding years later, Jess has won a South Pacific Junior Australian Championship, represented Australia twice in karting, and built a flourishing racing empire, Jess Golding Motorsport.

Jess Golding’s exploits didn’t stop on the karting circuit. She's had a series of accomplishments outside of karting, having joined the Australian skeleton team and collaborating with international race teams. She earned opportunities to race in Formula BMW in the UK and Asia. She also gives credit to her training from Rob Wilson and Jeff Brabham, which has contributed to her own driving style.

Amplifying her love for motorsport, Jess completed a degree in sports marketing from Coventry University, emerging with honors. She couldn’t be more right when she advises young aspirants about the wealth of opportunity in motorsport beyond driving. Her experience speaks volume, having worked for Supercars, the Queensland Performing Arts Center, and the Oaks Consultancy.

Born out of her commitment to nurturing the next generation of motorsport talents, Jess Golding Motorsport offers driver training and junior development programs for budding karting drivers. The business partners with companies like Patricia Course, Monday Nissan, Ipswich Car Club, and of course, Supercars. It's not surprising that Jess finds the most rewarding part of her job in this coaching role - watching drivers she's trained take the winning podium.

Even as Jess keeps her foot on the accelerator of her career, she’s equally appreciative of the support of her fiancé, who’s involved in kart racing, and her loyal team. She’s always seeking ways to hone her entrepreneurial skills. She excitedly speaks of possible future collaborations, seemingly fearless of any unexpected bumps on the track.

On the horizon, Jess is considering a thrilling collaboration with James Golding – no relation to her, despite their shared love for Supercars – for a retro racing event. And Jess Golding Motorsport? Its name will endure, even as Jess contemplates her upcoming nuptials. ‘Golding’ will always be a testament to her hard-fought journey – and the miles she continues to conquer.

Belinda’s interview with Jess Golding gave us an illuminating journey through the tracks of her life, one that’s simultaneously exhilarating and inspiring. A word of advice from Jess to anyone considering a career in motorsport is to take their time; it’s not a race, but a journey. And it’s fair to say that as much as it’s about crossing the finish lines, it’s also about enjoying the ride.

Listen to Jess's interview HERE.