September 2012, Shelby Williams was presented with Modern Woodmen’s Hometown Hero award. This award is presented each year to a person who exhibits tremendous character and a giving spirit within the local community. This year’s Award winner has taken his love for racing and used it to promote breast cancer awareness and raise money for a local nonprofit organization, not only on the oval dirt track, but all year long at many events and benefits.

"I was born into a family with a long history of racing, and I started racing nine years ago at the age of 11," recalls Shelby. "I have won several divisions, such as the 'Young Guns' Jr. Mini track 2006 Championship, several big shows, and multiple feature wins. I started racing at Grayson County Speedway, the slickest track in North Texas. Everyone says if you can master Grayson, you can master any track. To this day, I agree with that. I currently drive a “pink” modified, and a hot stock that I race from time to time.

"The modified is a totally different experience in racing. The modified is a totally different experience in racing with many adjustments and fine tuning compared to the stock car where you set up the car and race. I want to thank my Mom, Dad, Brother, LuAnn & Mark Daniel, Cliff Shelton, Chad Cox, Fred Floden, Raymond Lashley, and many others that have put in long nights and hard work to make all of this possible.

"Without your help and support, none of this would ever be possible; I love helping people in need. That is the reason I went to LuAnn and asked her if she would help me that I would love to help her. I thought it would be a little help and that would be it. Two years later I am still part of Women Rock, and like a son to her. I love that woman and she has taught me a life lesson along with many other lessons! I have gone to numerous benefits and shows with Women Rock, and over the last two years have seen the organization expand, reaching out to more and more women in need. I have made many new friends along the way.

"There have been times when people have laughed at me for driving a pink race car, but when I tell them the reason the car is pink and what Women Rock stands for, their attitude changes instantly and they thank me for what I do! I want to thank you for taking time to read about how I am taking my love for racing to promote breast cancer awareness. I hope that some part of my story has touched your heart and will make you want to be a part of Women Rock. There are people out there that aren’t as blessed as I am to have a healthy life, and I want you to help me comfort them!"