A former X Games gold medalist, Chrissie Beavis is one of the most successful women rally drivers and navigators in the world. She’s earned many stage and rally wins as a performance stock driver and is frequently sought out as a navigator by some of the biggest names in the sport such as Travis Pastrana and Tanner Foust. An architectural designer and fabricator by trade, Chrissie joins the inaugural Rebelle Rally as the Director of Scoring and the Head Rally Judge. We caught up with Chrissie to learn more about her racing chops, and her role onsite during the Rebelle.
What kind of motorsport experience do you have (and what does that mean to you, heading into this event)?
I grew up in the sport of stage rally. My parents both competed and organized one of the biggest rallies in the US. I’ve been competing for 20 years myself and have done several rally-raid events. I love the camaraderie and teamwork that a rally takes. Being involved with the first all women’s Rebelle Rally is a very unique experience.
How did you hear about the Rebelle Rally (and what made you want to be part of it)?
I’ve known Emily, the founder of the Rebelle, for years. She is a mentor and friend and I’m stoked to be a part of anything she is involved with.
What are some of your car-racing career highlights?
I have a gold and silver from X Games as a rally co-driver. As a navigator I’ve won the X-Over class at the Gazelle Rally in Morocco and taken 2nd in the 4 x 4 class. I’ve also had many stage and rally wins as a performance stock driver in my Jetta rally car.
What is your current occupation and what does that mean to you?
I am an architectural designer and fabricator. I design homes, restaurant and retail interiors, and custom architectural fixtures such as gates, doors, staircases and furniture. I love using reclaimed materials in my designs and always use sustainable methods in my constructions.
What are your passions outside of work? Besides your occupation, what makes you tick? Do you have creative interests? Other sports that you do?
I love all outdoor sports. I love to take road trips with my husband and family.
Please describe your role at the Rebelle Rally?
I am the Director of Scoring and the Head Rally Judge. I am responsible for the development and implementation of the scoring system and will be onsite with the rally to monitor and maintain the scores in real time.
Why were you selected for this position?
I have extensive experience in a variety of rally events and as a competitor I know what it takes to not only make a fair event, but also to make it fun and challenging.
How will women competing in the Rebelle interact with you during the Rally?
I will be available for the teams if they have any scoring issues. I will also make judgments along with other qualified staff when it comes to penalties and inquiries.
What do you think makes an all-women’s event unique?
Despite many advances for women in recent decades, many women still don’t understand what they are capable of. This rally will give them the chance to really understand how tough they are, and I know that this will change many of their lives.
What kind of person would you encourage to do an event like the Rebelle?
I think the only requirement for the Rebelle is a good attitude. If you have this, then you can learn the rest!
How does someone with no car background prepare for this event?
A lot of the competitors are taking our online navigation course, which really teaches you the basics of how to get through the event. Once you know which vehicle you will be taking, I recommend visiting your mechanic and learning about basic vehicle prep and maintenance. If possible, it is also a good idea to take an off-road driving course to really get familiar with what your vehicle can do.
As a professional navigator, what advice would you give to someone learning how to navigate? Please be specific to the terrain on the Rebelle.
Take a navigation course. Study and practice too!
You’ve competed in rally before as part of a team. What are some important lessons you’ve learned from being part of a team?
Being a good teammate can be a challenge in itself. It’s all about communication. Remember to give your teammate the benefit of any doubt and to forget and move on from any disagreement.
