Charlie Kimball

Charlie Kimball at Carb Day 2015 cropped - Sarah Stierch

Charlie Kimball (born February 20, 1985) is an American racing driver currently competing in the IndyCar Series. He is notable for being the first licensed driver with type 1 diabetes to win a race in the IndyCar Series.

Early Life and Career

Charlie Kimball was born in Chertsey, Surrey, England, but he grew up in Camarillo, California. He began his racing career in karting at a young age and quickly progressed through the ranks. Kimball attended Stanford University but left to pursue a career in racing.

Racing Career

Early Career

Kimball's early career saw him competing in various junior formula series. He raced in the Formula Ford and Formula 3 championships in the United Kingdom. In 2005, he won the Formula 3 Euro Series race at Zandvoort.

Indy Lights

In 2009, Kimball moved to the Indy Lights series, the developmental series for the IndyCar Series. He drove for Team PBIR and later for Andretti Autosport. His performance in Indy Lights earned him a promotion to the IndyCar Series.

IndyCar Series

Kimball made his debut in the IndyCar Series in 2011, driving for Chip Ganassi Racing. He achieved his first podium finish in 2012 at the Honda Indy Toronto. In 2013, Kimball made history by becoming the first driver with type 1 diabetes to win an IndyCar race, securing victory at the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Personal Life

Kimball was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2007. Despite the challenges posed by the condition, he has managed to maintain a successful racing career. He uses a continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump to manage his diabetes while racing. Kimball is also an advocate for diabetes awareness and works with various organizations to promote education and support for those living with the condition.

Achievements

• First licensed driver with type 1 diabetes to win an IndyCar race.
• Winner of the 2013 Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio.
• Multiple podium finishes in the IndyCar Series.

See Also

• IndyCar Series
• Chip Ganassi Racing
• Type 1 diabetes
• Honda Indy 200