What do you do if you’re a fifth grader and your entire family tree has roots in stock car racing? You race of course.

Fourth generation racer Karsyn Elledge is stepping up to the next level. Photo from JR Motorsports

Young Karsyn Elledge is the fourth generation in the Earnhardt line to tackle the world of racing. Karsyn is the daughter of JR Motorsports General Manager Kelley Earnhardt and NASCAR winning crew chief Jimmy Elledge, both with several years of stock car racing in their resume. Uncle Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been the most popular driver on NASCAR’s premiere division for over 10 years.

Karsyn’s maternal grandfather, Dale Earnhardt, is the seven-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion and winner of 76 races. Maternal great-grandfather Robert Gee became famous for building some of the most powerful NASCAR cars of the period. Her paternal grandfather, Terry Elledge, built the motors that powered Earnhardt to many of those championships and victories. Her great grandfather was the legendary stock car hero Ralph Earnhardt.

There’s no doubt about it – racing is in her blood.

Late late year Karsyn moved up to the 125cc go-kart class at Millbridge Speedway in Salisbury, N.C. driving the No. 3 Air Hogs car. She promptly won her first race. But before you jump to the conclusion that the driver has had it easy, consider this: Uncle Dale Jr refuses to sponsor her car.

Granted, Karsyn has a headstart in racing by genetics and family member that understand and support her desire to race, which can be a battle for other young racers. It’s no free ride however. Uncle Dale wants Karsyn to earn her way in the sport and earn her own sponsors, just like every other up and coming young racer.

Remember her name because you are very likely to see Karsyn for many, many years to come.