The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) is urging female Flat Track riders at home and abroad to take part in the inaugural ACU Women's International Flat Track Race at Buxton Raceway on 6 September – an event that could help to shape the world championship future of the discipline for female competitors.
The popularity of the Flat Track discipline is growing among female riders, and organising an international race in Derbyshire is seen as a great way to highlight the size and strength of the women’s Flat Track racing community globally – and pave the way for a potential FIM Women’s World Championship in the future.
Every rider that enters at Buxton Raceway will help to build the case for future world-level competition. Participation figures from the event will be recorded through the FIM system, providing evidence of international interest, rider engagement, and a willingness to participate.
The ACU Women's International Flat Track Race has been officially listed on the FIM/FMNs International Sporting Calendar and is being permitted by the ACU as the national governing body of motorcycle sport in the UK – and the only organisation affiliated to the FIM.
The meeting is open to riders from around the world that hold the appropriate national licence and have the correct start permission from their FIM-recognised national federation.The initiative is being supported by ACU British Flat Track officials as part of a wider ambition to establish an FIM-recognised pathway for women in the sport.
Pippa Laverty, ACU Women's Ambassador and a member of the FIM Women in Motorcycling Commission, said: “This is about far more than one race meeting. Every rider that lines up at Buxton will be making a statement about the future of women's Flat Track.
“If we want to see an FIM Women's Flat Track World Championship become a reality, we need riders to show there is a thriving international community ready to support it. This event gives women the chance to compete on the international stage, represent their FIM-affiliated federation, and help create opportunities for the next generation.”
The ACU Women's International Flat Track Race follows the success of recent FIM initiatives that have expanded opportunities for female riders, including the Women's Speedway Academy, Gold Trophy and Speedway World Cup.
Matthew Edwards-Wear, ACU Chief Executive Officer, said: “As the national federation, we’re passionate about supporting initiatives that can further women’s motorcycle sport, and running an officially-sanctioned international meeting at Buxton is part of that commitment.
“Flat Track is continuing to grow and having a full grid of international female riders at Buxton will show the sport is ready to progress and take the next step.”
Riders requiring support with licences, start permissions or entry requirements are encouraged to e-mail the organising team HERE who will provide appropriate guidance.