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I was raised in a family of mostly women and my mother taught me from day one, that a woman can do anything a man can, if she puts her mind and energies into it. She was one of the first true feminists.

So I’m not one to give woman any special consideration when it comes to particpating in sports. In fact, when they get there own leagues, it’s only further proof they need a handicap.

In motorcycle racing, it’s no different, especially since it doesn’t require any special strength and a smaller stature can actually be helpful. Several woman have tried their hand at motorcycle racing with minimal success. But the media goes crazy for these gals despite the fact they are bringing up the rear. Recently, Jessica Zalusky was given all kind of media attention while more deserving male racers were ignored. I understand it, but I don’t like it!

But finally, I believe we have a couple glimmers of hope on the girl racer horizon. A couple of women who can compete directly with the guys without excuses.

I’ve been watching Melissa Paris’ career with great interest as of late. While many may only know her as the wife of AMA racer Josh Hayes, her skill on a roadracing motorcycle is significant. While I don’t know all the details of her racing career (check out the link below),  she’s very fast and dedicated. I do know that at Daytona this year in the 200, she finished the highest of any previous female garnering a 21 place finish. Not too shabby!

http://www.melissaparis.com/

Now, apparently she’s been offered (and accepted) a wildcard ride at the upcoming WSBK weekend at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah at the end of May. While her chances of winning that race are virtually nil, I’d love to see her finish a few places up the order. Best of luck Melissa!

The other young woman who’s impressed me for a couple years now is Elena Myers. I first read about her having success on a 125 two-stroke in the club racing scene in California. But since then, she’s gone more national and has kept up some serious winning ways. She really impressed me at Miller last year in the 125 USGPRU race and I hope to see her name start showing up at bigger venues.

http://www.elenamyers.com/

I think both these gals have some seriously good prospects of competing in motorcycle racing on equal terms with their male counterparts, and I look forward to the day (hopefully in my lifetime) that a woman stands on top of the podium at a MotoGP, WSBK or AMA event.

Rhino