Hi Lori,
I have had 2 other career's before flying. I have been a Contractor/Builder in Residential construction for more than 20 yrs and very successful. During that time I also was involved in racing cars semi-professionally. Then I had the opportunity to race at a professional level with sponsership $ so I took it. Worked hard for many years to build seat time just like flying. Tested with some of the best drivers in America. It was an incredible experience. Unfortunately not many people understand the technical side of this industry. Need to understand all the systems,aerodynamics,heat management,fuel systems,weight transfer,..and so on.I competed at the professional level for 4 yrs.After racing I went into flying at almost 40 yrs old. I am 48 now and have my ratings,worked Part 135 flying freight. I loved it. I relocated to the SW and have had other pilots tell me that as I look for another job here I should leave out my racing years. They said it was a red flag meaning most company's would consider me a risk. When I flew Cargo/no GPS just 2 VOR's,at night,I logged a good deal of actual. I became a much better instrument pilot.At the time that Company's D.O. felt my racing experience was a plus. I have always been about safety,checklists,procedures both racing and flying. Anyway what is your take? thanks for your time.