Riley's Rebuilds Returns to the Great Race
What started as a teenage passion for rebuilding carburetors has grown into a nationally recognized movement inspiring young people especially young women to pursue careers in the automotive trades.
Founded by Riley Schlick at just 13 years old, Riley's Rebuilds has rebuilt thousands of carburetors while mentoring high school students in automotive restoration, fabrication, and mechanical skills. Today, the organization serves as a platform for education, empowerment, and hands on learning, proving that the next generation of automotive enthusiasts is alive and well.
For the 2026 Great Race, Riley's Rebuilds returns as part of the inaugural Manufacturer Division, joining four other all female teams of builders, mechanics, content creators, and racers. Riley Schlick and navigator Jo Bejar will compete in Jo's beautifully prepared 1974 Datsun 240Z. The duo made an impressive Great Race debut in 2025, earning a second-place finish in the Rookie Class while piloting a 1972 Corvette. Together, the teams embody a shared mission of preserving automotive history, showcasing the talents of women in the automotive industry, and inspiring the next generation of enthusiasts through hands-on experience, mentorship, and competition.
Whether rebuilding classic cars, speaking to students, or competing in events like the Great Race, Riley's Rebuilds continues to demonstrate that passion, hard work, and mentorship can open doors and change lives.
Be sure to follow the team's journey throughout the Great Race as they celebrate the spirit of adventure, friendship, and the enduring love of classic automobiles. If you have any old carburetors sitting on the shelf you want rebuilt or to donate, throw them in the trunk, they will take them for the whole ride to LA and then back to Fl where the girls will get their hands dirty learning.
https://www.facebook.com/RileysRebuilds
