Freddy Niblack is no stranger to competition. As one of racings only out drivers, he has been competing his entire life, both on and off the track. Motorsports are growing in popularity amongst LGBT sports enthusiasts and Niblack admits that the he has seen an increase in LGBT fans at the race track. "The past few months I believe have been a turning point in my career," Niblack states. "For the first time, I began to feel support from my community."

It’s difficult just being a driver without even adding the gay element. "Racing a car is physically demanding and requires a lot of work off track as well.  It’s lonely on the road and I always feel like the third wheel sometimes," he mentions. "I believe I race better when I’m happy. Seeing people from the LGBT community in the stands makes me happy and very proud. I want their love and support but most of all, to make everyone proud."

GC: Since coming out, have you been embraced by fellow racers and the industry as a whole?

FN: Racing has definitely evolved with its attitude towards homosexuality. However, there are still those people that would love to play smear the queer on the race track. Only problem is at 200mph, I can’t hear you and you can’t catch me. The end.

GC: What obstacles did you need to overcome?

FN: The perception of being gay towards the predominately straight race community. There are thousands of eyes watching at the race track and it’s always been in the back of my mind to conduct myself professionally and appropriately so as not to give any reason for people to attack my sexuality.

GC: Were there any fellow racers that were supportive? If so, who?

FN: My fellow gay racer Evan Darling was the first to openly come out in the United States. Because of him, it broke the ice and paved the way for people like me to follow in his footsteps. Evan Darling is a class act, an amazing racer, and my LGBT brother.

GC: Throughout your career, what has been your most challenging moment?

FN: Trying to juggle being a father, a businessman, a racer, and being gay. Society says that a gay man is not supposed to be any of these things. I would rather be one in a million than one of the million. Challenge accepted!

GC: Have you seen much support from the LGBT community?

FN: Unfortunately, not as much as I would like. Hopefully this will change as there are more people coming out in professional sports than ever before.

GC: What would you like to tell the LGBT community about yourself and the sport in general?

FN: You can be anything you want to be. Don’t let being LGBT define you or limit you. Dream big and face adversity head on.

GC: What are your plans for 2018 and beyond?

FN: I’m racing for Woodard Racing Organization in the U.K. in the Ginetta Gt4 British world Endurance championship. In between traveling abroad I’ll be doing some open wheel racing here in the U.S. Further U.S. plans to be announced.

GC: Are you involved with any local LGBT organizations in Indianapolis or elsewhere?

FN: I supported Kevin Warren in his Pence Must Go campaign here in Indy. I’ve also helped raise money, hygiene products and various other things for the Damien center here in Indianapolis as well. LGBT youths interest in sport is a huge passion of mine and hopefully something I can become more involved in the future.

GC: What advice would you give to other professional athletes struggling with their sexuality?

FN: You will face adversity and criticism. Hold your head up and take your place in your sport of choice and in life... don’t let being gay define you or your abilities.

GC: Who are some of your hero’s in the industry as well as within the LGBT community and why?

FN: Danny Watts the openly gay U.K. race driver. Gareth Thomas, Greg Louganis and Simon Dunn, as I admire anyone who is openly gay in professional sports for the role it plays in inspiring LGBT youth. I also admire Calpernia Addams, her story is inspiring and important to showcase her bravery and some of the heartbreaking struggles the transgender community faces.

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Contributor GayCalgary Staff |

Person Freddy Niblack |

Topic Celebrity Interview |