Riding Into Memories

Doing something you love comes naturally if you’ve grown up making memories with it, and senior Kassandra Shull has grown up with family traditions of racing and car showings. Her love for cars started when she was born into a family of mechanics. Her father and grandfather own an auto wrecker service, Gary Shull Auto Repairing, in Fluvanna County.

In addition to participating in car shows and races, Shull and her family often earn trophies for the best car and truck when they compete. However, the shows Shull attends are not just for earning trophies and rewards; many also raise money for important causes. For example, in 2017, her aunt and family decided to raise money for the Fluvanna County high school football team, raising funds for new jerseys and equipment. “It was lots of fun. It was an amazing turnout and we raised a lot of money,” said Shull.

Another of her favorite memories is when her family attended a race for a little girl who had cancer. A car was painted in the girl’s honor, written with her name and the names of those donating money for her. The event also offered a raffle for a power wheels car. Shull’s aunt won the car and donated it  to the little girl, along with the money that was raised so that she could take a trip to Disney World.

Shull said that she and her family members most enjoy watching Novas and Corvettes. She also loves the stories her grandpa tells her about each car and how they connect to each family member. “I think my love of cars makes me feel closer to my family. It’s something that each of us love and it brings us together,” she said.