THE RANKIN FAMILY POSE WITH THEIR POSTER THAT WILL HANG OVER THEIR CANOPY NEAR THEIR SPOT IN THE PITS AT DEMOLITION DERBY COMPETITIONS. MADDIE RANKIN STARTED HER DEMOLITION DERBY SEASON ON APRIL 3 AT FREEDOM HALL IN LOUISVILLE.
LOOKING BEYOND THE TRACK
Maddie is known for how she drives, but also for what she is building off the track.
She has created a podcast focused on younger drivers in demolition derby, giving them a space to share their experiences.
“ It’ s mainly youth-based, because I want to give kids the chance to get a name for themselves and get them out there,” she says.
The idea came from her own experience starting young and wanting to make sure others had the same opportunity.
Through the podcast, Maddie interviews other young drivers and highlights their stories, helping connect the next generation in the sport.
She plans to grow her presence in demolition derby through live-streaming events, expanding her podcast and eventually building her own cars and shop while helping others enter the sport.
Maddie is early in her career, but she has built experience both on and off the track.
While she continues to compete alongside her parents, she is also beginning to forge her own path in the sport. Between building cars, creating content and connecting with other young drivers, her role is expanding beyond just driving.
She has spent years learning to handle a car, compete and find her place in the demolition derby community.
For Maddie, the goal is not just to keep racing, but to stay involved in the sport long-term, building something of her own while continuing what her family started. The driver’ s seat is just the beginning.
MADDIE RANKIN STARTS UP HER NO. 4 DEMOLITION DERBY CAR TO DRIVE IT BACK TO HER GREEN GARAGE.
PAGE NO. 10 NEWS AND TRIBUNE SPORTS MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2026