By Lisa Parent

Surge of women embracing the thrills of motocross in Medicine Hat

Jun 8, 2023 | 3:44 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Motocross is a sport that requires focus, guts and a willingness to risk injury. Something local Courtney Schmale became addicted to quickly after joining. According to her, many women are finding that same love for the sport.

Schmale says she’s noticed more women join motocross this season. When she first started riding, her peers were mostly men. Noticing the shortage, she began hosting women’s clinics that saw a turnout of 40 plus riders.

Schmale felt these clinics were important, because women use different techniques to race than men. The clinics also helped women to create community and make friends.

Since then, Schmale has seen more women going to open track nights and tournaments. Many of these women are moms who used to sit on the sidelines and watch their family compete.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

3h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

23h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

“It’s becoming something for everyone. Even every race we’ve gone to or have hosted, we’ve just noticed the mass amount of women who are wanting to get out of their comfort zone and start trying to race or just ride in general. It’s inspiring to have that healthy friendly competition with other women too and just help each other in the sport,” Schmale states.

Schmale has been focused on developing her own skills recently, but plans to host more women’s clinics in the future.