Motorcycling has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated field, but throughout history, many remarkable women have shattered stereotypes and left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycling. These women have not only excelled in competitive racing but also contributed to the motorcycling community through advocacy, innovation, and breaking down barriers. Here, we celebrate ten of the most notable women in motorcycling.
Table of Contents
1. Beryl Swain
Beryl Swain made history in 1962 by becoming the first woman to compete as a solo rider in the Isle of Man TT, one of the most dangerous and prestigious motorcycle races in the world. Her participation was groundbreaking, but it also led to the banning of women from the race for many years due to concerns over the safety of female riders. Despite the setback, Beryl Swain’s courage and determination laid the groundwork for future generations of female motorcyclists.
2. Maria Costello
Maria Costello is a British motorcycle racer who holds the distinction of being the first woman to claim a podium finish in a race around the Isle of Man TT course. She set a Guinness World Record for being the fastest woman to lap the TT course and has become a strong advocate for women in motorsports. Maria continues to inspire women riders and has been involved in various initiatives to promote motorcycling among women.
3. Laia Sanz
Laia Sanz is a Spanish motorcycle rider who has made a name for herself in both motocross and enduro racing. She is a multiple-time Women’s Trial World Champion and Women’s Enduro World Champion. Laia’s impressive skills and resilience have earned her respect in the male-dominated world of Dakar Rally, where she has consistently performed well against male competitors.
4. Ashley Fiolek
Ashley Fiolek is a deaf motocross racer from the United States who has won multiple AMA Women’s Motocross Championships. Despite her hearing impairment, Ashley has excelled in a sport that relies heavily on auditory cues. Her success has inspired many and brought attention to the capabilities of athletes with disabilities in competitive sports.
5. Leslie Porterfield
Leslie Porterfield is an American motorcycle racer who holds the title of the fastest woman on two wheels. She set a world record at the Bonneville Salt Flats, where she achieved speeds exceeding 232 mph on her custom-built motorcycle. Leslie is not only a racer but also a business owner and a prominent figure in promoting motorcycling for women.
6. Elspeth Beard
Elspeth Beard is a British motorcyclist known for being one of the first English women to ride around the world on a motorcycle. In 1982, she embarked on her solo journey, covering 35,000 miles over two years. Elspeth’s incredible adventure, documented in her memoir “Lone Rider,” paved the way for long-distance female motorcyclists and remains an inspiration for those who dream of exploring the world on two wheels.
7. Ana Carrasco
Ana Carrasco is a Spanish motorcycle racer who made history by becoming the first woman to win a motorcycle world championship in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship in 2018. Her victory was a landmark moment in motorcycling, proving that women can compete and win at the highest levels of the sport.
8. Melissa Paris
Melissa Paris is an American motorcycle racer and one of the few women to compete in professional motorcycle racing at the national and international levels. She has raced in the MotoAmerica series and has been a fierce advocate for women in the sport, working to provide more opportunities and visibility for female riders.
9. Debbie Evans
Debbie Evans is an American motorcycle trials rider and stuntwoman who has made significant contributions to motorcycling and film. Known as the “Queen of Trials,” Debbie was one of the first women to compete in motorcycle trials in the 1970s. She later transitioned into a successful career as a stuntwoman in Hollywood, performing in numerous blockbuster films and television shows, showcasing her incredible riding skills.
10. Shirley Muldowney
Although primarily known for her achievements in drag racing, Shirley Muldowney also made her mark on the world of motorcycling. She was the first woman to receive a license from the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) to drive a top-fuel dragster. Her trailblazing career has inspired countless women in motorsports, including those in motorcycling.
FAQs
1. Who was the first woman to compete in the Isle of Man TT?
Beryl Swain was the first woman to compete as a solo rider in the Isle of Man TT in 1962.
2. Which woman holds the record for the fastest speed on a motorcycle?
Leslie Porterfield holds the title of the fastest woman on two wheels, with a record speed exceeding 232 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
3. Who was the first woman to win a motorcycle world championship?
Ana Carrasco became the first woman to win a motorcycle world championship in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship in 2018.
4. How did Ashley Fiolek overcome her hearing impairment in motocross?
Ashley Fiolek, despite being deaf, excelled in motocross by relying on visual cues and vibrations to compete at the highest levels.
5. What book did Elspeth Beard write about her solo motorcycle journey around the world?
Elspeth Beard documented her solo motorcycle journey around the world in her memoir titled “Lone Rider.”
Conclusion
These ten women have not only excelled in their respective areas of motorcycling but have also broken barriers, inspired others, and contributed to the growth and inclusivity of the sport. Their stories are a testament to the determination, skill, and passion that women bring to motorcycling, and they continue to inspire future generations of riders.