Patrick becomes first woman IRL winner

American Danica Patrick became the first woman to win a race in the Indy Racing League (IRL) yesterday, powering to victory in the Indy Japan 300 race. The 26-year-old won by almost six seconds from Helio Castroneves after the race favourites were...

American Danica Patrick became the first woman to win a race in the Indy Racing League (IRL) yesterday, powering to victory in the Indy Japan 300 race.

The 26-year-old won by almost six seconds from Helio Castroneves after the race favourites were forced to pit for fuel in the closing laps in Motegi's Twin Ring Circuit.

"It's been a long time coming - finally," Patrick told reporters. "This is fabulous."

Leader Scott Dixon pitted with five laps to go and Dan Wheldon and Tony Kanaan came in a lap later. Patrick subsequently took the lead from Castroneves with two of the 200 laps left.

Patrick had been dubbed the Anna Kournikova of IRL but victory in her 50th IndyCar start will end comparisons with the Russian pin-up.

Michael Andretti, co-owner of Andretti Green Racing, said: "We have all believed in Danica and she proved today that she is a winner."

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