By Dr Helen Owton and Lorna Stevens
Have you ever witnessed the electrifying rush of motorcycle racing and then realised you’re watching women? The roar of the engines, the speed, the exceptional skill, the intense focus: it’s more than just a race for many women, it can be a fierce battle for empowerment and mastery.
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But what drives these women to race motorcycles at the highest levels where the stakes are so high? And what inspires others to take it even further, diving into research with a PhD to uncover the untold stories of women in motorcycling? Lorna Stevens talks about her own experiences of competitive motorcycling and her motivations to pursue a PhD in this field.
Getting into competitive motorcycle racing
Women can get into motorcycling through the influence of fathers, brothers or partners who introduce them to the thrill of the sport. Others can be drawn to the freedom and independence it provides, especially in areas with limited public transportation. Media representations and the influence of supportive communities, such as women’s motorcycle clubs, also play key roles in inspiring women to pursue motorcycling. These connections can spark a passion, igniting a desire to push boundaries. Listen to Lorna’s background and how she got into competitive motorcycling.
Why ride?
Women riding motorcycles often experience a powerful mix of empowerment, exhilaration, and intense focus. The sense of mastery and independence that comes from controlling a powerful machine in a traditionally male-dominated sport provides a strong feeling of personal achievement. The adrenaline rush of high-speed racing can be both thrilling and addictive, fuelling their passion for the sport. Additionally, women describe entering a state of deep concentration, where they are fully immersed in the experience, responding instinctively to every turn and vibration. Listen to Lorna describe how she enters ‘a bubble’, commonly referred to as ‘the zone’.
Sudden moments
Women riding motorcycles describe sudden, memorable moments that are intense, life-changing, and emotionally significant (Owton, 2022a). These moments can range from unexpected challenges, like a dramatic crash or near-miss, to profound experiences of personal growth or realisation, such as a shift in focus or mindset during a race (Owton, 2021, 2022a, 2022b). Some women reflect on feeling moments of clarity or vulnerability, such as when they realise the risks involved or when their priorities shifted due to life events. Listen to Lorna describe some of her sudden moments which include a major crash and getting back on the bike after having had a baby.
Why do a PhD on women’s motorcycling?
Women can be driven to pursue a PhD in fields like competitive motorcycling by a deep personal passion for the subject and a desire to contribute to underexplored areas of research. Many are motivated by a strong interest in addressing gender disparities within the sport or by the desire to further understand and document the unique experiences of women in motorcycling. Personal experiences, such as overcoming challenges in the sport, may also inspire women to delve into academic research to better understand the barriers and opportunities that women face. For some, as is the case with Lorna, the pursuit of a PhD represents the culmination of long-held academic aspirations, while for others, it becomes a way to blend personal passion with scholarly inquiry to make a lasting impact on the field. There are many positives of sportspeople completing a PhD in sport. Listen to Lorna’s motives of pursuing a PhD and what she hopes to find out.
For many women who engage in motorcycling and competitive motorcycling, the appeal appears to lie in the adventure, thrill, and personal challenge, as well as the opportunity to develop new skills. The thrilling sight of women racing motorcycles isn’t just about speed – for those who dive into the world of competitive motorcycling or pursue a PhD in this field, it’s about more than just a personal challenge; it’s about carving out space, overcoming barriers, and rewriting the rules. Women are not only changing the landscape of women’s sports, they’re creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
If you’re interested in completing a PhD in women’s sporting experiences, then explore the opportunities online at the OU or get in touch with Dr Helen Owton.
