Women from 14 different countries at FIM camp

The first 2015 FIM Road Racing training camp brought together women from three different continents and 14 different countries.

Almeria circuit in Spain hosted the first 2015 FIM Road Racing training camp for women this week. Altogether 21 women took part in the training camp that was hosted by the FIM Women in Motorcycling Commission, Bike Promotion and BMW Motorrad.

The level of the participants was wide-ranging, including women who were complete novices on track and others who compete at a professional level. The youngest rider was 20 and the oldest 55.
 “This event broke all previous camp records, bringing more women from more countries and cultures together than ever before. The women represented Malaysia, USA, Ecuador, Russia and many European countries”, says FIM Women in motorcycling commission Director Nita Korhonen with satisfaction.

“The wide variety of backgrounds shows how women of all ages and cultures are interested in motorcycling. It is a great signal for the whole industry”, says Korhonen.

 “The camps are evolving as we learn what women want and it’s great to see so much diversity in level of skill on track and see them all improve. I feel really fortunate to be part of these camps and the Commission and look forward to seeing more potential future stars come through these events”, says camp instructor Maria Costello.

For the second time now the camp included a race, in which all those who wanted could participate. The winner of the competition was Melissa Paris from the USA.

 “Melissa has a great experience of racing so we knew to expect good results from her but it wasn’t for lack of trying by the others. I am especially impressed with Siti Norafizah Muhammad from Malaysia. She has raced only 250cc machines before this and handled her first experience of a 1000cc bike extremely well. She is sure to have a great future ahead of her in racing”, says one of the camp instructors, ex MotoGP racer Jürgen Fuchs.

After a successful four days at Almeria, the FIM Women in Motorcycling Commission, together with Bike Promotion, have decided to organise the next camp on 24-26 June. The participants will receive instruction from high-level trainers at the legendary MotoGP circuit Brno.

Photos: Amelie Meseke