Lance Fenderson

Lance Fenderson is an American racing driver who has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Fenderson's racing journey began at the young age of 5, racing go-karts in New Hampshire. His family eventually moved to Mooresville, North Carolina, a hub for motorsports. By 14, he was competing in the F1600 series, showcasing his talent in open-wheel racing. His early career saw him achieving numerous race wins and competing against other drivers who have become very successful such as Logan Sargent and Enzo Fittipaldi.

In 2019, a collision during a high school lacrosse game left Fenderson paralyzed from the chest down, halting his racing career. Despite retaining only 15% function of his body, he focused on physical therapy and pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at NC State University. His passion for racing never waned, and he engineered a return to the sport. He obtained a BMW Car Club of America license and, with modifications to a BMW M240iR race car that allowed him to control the vehicle with his hands, he was back on the track.

Fenderson's comeback culminated in a successful return to racing in October 2024. In his first race post-injury, he swept the BMWCCA GP class, winning all four races and consistently finishing within the top 10 overall. He also received the Spirit of Club Racing Flag, recognizing his perseverance and character. Looking ahead, Fenderson plans to compete in NASA races throughout 2025 and aims to participate in the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship by 2027. He aspires to inspire others, particularly those with disabilities, proving that with determination, anything is possible. He envisions starting a race team for athletes with spinal cord injuries, offering them the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing.