Anybody who keeps up with current MTB press will have almost certainly read at least one “Next BIG Thing” article over the last few months (I’ve even written one!).
Of the different types and styles of MTB we all know that it’s going to be a huge year for the enduro format. And the 29er wheel size debate will be running for a good while yet; so what exactly is THE next big thing?
Well, to put it simply: Women’s mountain biking. Ladies. Tough, feisty and adrenaline charged ladies, hitting the tracks and getting into downhill (DH).
Women’s Mountain Biking
Yes gents, it looks like it’s time to start splurging your hard earned cash on more kit and bling bolt-ons, only this time it’s not going to be for you! Wives, girlfriends, daughters and mums from across the land are becoming increasingly involved in the traditionally male dominated world of downhill, and they love it!
Having myself actively encouraged my better half to saddle up a little over a year ago, (trust me guys, it makes justifying your next mountain biking holiday a whole lot easier!) we have been initiated into a new wing of an already very social biking community, and formed friendships which allow us both to ride the way we want without worrying (too much) about the other.
An initial passing interest rapidly developed into a whole lot more, and my partner has recently stepped up to become the third active female committee member of our local DH club. She has also taken the bold step into the world of organised competition, joining a rapidly growing number of shredding senoritas in the process.
How the MTB Girls are Riding
Last summer’s local grassroots race series (Gravity Project’s ‘Honey Series’) attracted a regular party of podium hungry lasses, and judging by the numbers seen already this year (both rounds of the Naked Racing mini DH winter series have had female entrants into double figures, and the first round of the Nationals is fully booked) 2013 is going to be one for the girls.
They’re not hanging about either! We have a two-time DH World Cup winner in Rachel Atherton, European 4x champ Katy Curd hails from just outside Bath, and young talent such as Manon Carpenter and Hannah Barnes regularly tear up the domestic and international fields.
With the growth in numbers of both casual and competitive riders has come a greater demand for female exclusive training programs, designed to both increase confidence and performance.
Downhill MTB just for Girls!
Diva Descent has answered that call, responding with: “The first of its kind in the world!! – Downhill racing just for Girls!”
Created by Sarah Muir to encourage female entrants in DH (and more recently enduro) events across the UK, and at every level; they boast internationally acclaimed coaches, with the likes of the aforementioned Miss Curd, and MTB legend Tracy Mosely both on their books.
Speaking with Katy recently, I asked her about her involvement with the Divas and what they are working towards:
“For the past couple of years I have been trying to get involved with various events and coaching days; to encourage more women to get involved in the sport. So when Sarah Muir from Diva Descent got in touch and asked if I would help with the mini DH, I jumped at the chance.”
“So far it has been going really well. All the girls seem to be really happy and it definitely shows in their riding. Entry numbers have boosted from the usual 3 or 4, to 16 for the first round and 10 at the 2nd round, so it is obviously working and hopefully these numbers will continue to grow.
Every race we have had a load of first time racers which is great to see.
I love seeing everyone enjoying themselves and also improving with each run. Hopefully I can continue to work with everyone and encourage more and more women in to the sport.
If any women out there want to get involved just sign up for the Mini DH rounds and I will be there at track side to help out.”
Women’s Mountain Biking Holidays
And for the breaks between races? Well the Divas have that covered too; providing uplift days in association with Uplift Scotland, and holidays with the well established guys over at the Riders Retreat in Morzine.
The truly great thing about all this, is that the sport itself is growing and becoming recognised on a national level. More bike parks are popping up, with greater facilities and increased funding. To top it off, couples and whole families are enjoying them together.
The sport wins.
You get to spend more time on the trails, so you win.
Your relationships win.
Even local economy wins!
Everyone’s a winner, and it’s not very often that you can legitimately say that.
If this guide to women’s mountain biking has inspired you check out the below links.
More info on Diva Descent can be found here: www.divadescent.com
Katy Curd offers group and private tuition for both men and women: www.katycurd.com
For Naked Racing mini DH series dates, locations and entry information check out: www.minidownhill.com
