Maplewood High School sophomore Bella “The Karate Kid” Betts is proving that determination, discipline and hard work can take you a long way — both in the classroom and on the racetrack.

At just 15 years old, Bella has already spent six seasons competing in dirt track racing. The Mecca, Ohio, teen drives the #13 RTS 270 Micro Sprint, traveling throughout Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York to compete against some of the region’s top drivers.

Racing is much more than a weekend hobby for Bella and her family. Her season runs from April through November and includes approximately 48 races each year, all while Bella balances her responsibilities as a Maplewood student, volleyball player and martial artist.

A Season to Remember

Bella’s 2026 season featured impressive finishes, challenging setbacks and a championship battle that came down to the final race.

Despite mechanical issues and weather interruptions throughout the season, Bella recorded several top-five finishes and remained in contention for the Blanket Hill Speedway 270 Micro Sprint championship.

When the final checkered flag fell, she finished just eight points shy of the championship.

Her outstanding season did not go unnoticed. Bella was named the 2026 Twin State Auto Racing Club Driver of the Year in the Micro/Jr Sprints category and received the Honeybee & Co. Female Finisher Award at the Brothers Tribute Race at Blanket Hill Speedway.

Bella was also featured in Women in Motorsports: Dirt Edition, a coloring book highlighting female competitors in dirt track racing and helping inspire the next generation of young racers.

A Family Effort

Racing is truly a family affair for the Betts family.

Bella’s father, Ricci Betts, is a five-time dirt track champion who now shares his experience with his daughter. Her older sister, Summer, serves as crew chief, while Summer’s boyfriend, Nate, helps as a mechanic. Bella’s mother, Bambi, handles everything from mechanical support and meals to media, social media and photography.

Even Bella’s two-year-old nephew, Maverick, has earned the nickname “Crew Chief 2.0.”

Bella is also becoming increasingly involved in maintaining and repairing her race car, developing mechanical skills that complement what she learns behind the wheel.

Far From Finished

After coming within eight points of a championship, Bella is already focused on the 2027 racing season. With plans for a newer RTS chassis, she hopes to build on everything she learned this year and continue working toward her ultimate goal — Victory Lane.

Whether she is competing on the racetrack, volleyball court or in martial arts, Bella continues to demonstrate the determination and work ethic of a Maplewood Rocket.

Eight points short. Far from finished.

Congratulations, Bella, on an incredible season and on representing Maplewood High School with pride!