The FIM is saddened by the recent passing of Beaulah Schoeman who was the founding President of the CONU of FIM Africa and the first President of the FIM Women’s Commission (CFM). Fondly known as the ‘Iron Lady of Motorsport’ by her Motorsport South Africa (MSA) colleagues, Beaulah passed away just before her eighty-first birthday but will always be remembered as a formidable leader.
Beaulah’s involvement in motorsport dates back over half a century, her early passion and dedication was soon recognised and saw her quickly rise through the ranks, which ultimately saw her appointment as Managing Director of Motorsport South Africa, a role she held with distinction for twenty-seven years until her retirement from this position in 2009.
Another notable achievement on Beaulah’s role of honour was the promotion of the internationally acclaimed Sun City Motocross Grand Prix, which positioned South Africa as a viable global host in the international motocross calendar.
Beaulah became a member of the Board for Auditing, Financial Management and Promotion (BFP) in 1996, before being elected as Vice President of the Promotion section a year later. She would go on to become the President of the FIM Women’s Commission from 2006 to October 2012. In 1999 Beaulah was also elected as the President of FIM Africa, a position she would fulfil with her trademark passion and determination through to 2015.
In 2015 at the General Assembly in Jerez, Spain, Beaulah was awarded the Nicolas Rodil del Valle Motorcycle Merit Gold Medal.
Beyond motorsport, Beaulah was known for her deep love of animals and served as an advocate for animal welfare throughout her life. Her commitment to justice, equality, and care extended well beyond her official roles, revealing a woman of strong conviction and generous spirit.
On behalf of FIM President Jorge Viegas, we extend our deepest condolences to Beaulah’s family, her many friends and colleagues, FIM Africa and the MSA, she will be sorely missed by the entire FIM Family.